The Right Order for Flossing, Brushing, and Mouthwash
While we all know brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash are essential for good oral hygiene, there’s ongoing debate about the best sequence.
Experts agree that a thorough approach that combines all three is crucial for optimal oral health. However, the order can impact effectiveness.
Floss First
According to Dr. Mike Wei, DDS, starting with flossing is key.
“Flossing helps remove food debris and plaque from between the teeth and along the gumline, areas a toothbrush may not reach effectively,” explains Wei.
Dr. Wei recommends flossing before brushing to ensure the toothbrush can reach those clean, freshly flossed surfaces.
Brushing Up Next
Following flossing with brushing allows toothpaste to penetrate the spaces between teeth that were just cleaned.
Brushing dislodges any remaining particles and polishes the tooth surfaces.
Choose a toothpaste with silica for proper exfoliation.
“Overall, following this order of flossing, brushing and using mouthwash can help to ensure a comprehensive cleaning of your teeth and gums, leading to better oral hygiene and a reduced risk of dental issues, such as cavities and gum disease,” says Wei.
This recommended sequence aligning with common practice among dental professionals promotes optimal oral health and reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Finishing with Mouthwash
Mouthwash provides an extra layer of protection and helps freshen breath.
Dr. Ellie Phillips, DDS, suggests rinsing with a traditional mouthwash after flossing and brushing. Studies have shown this step can be “five times more effective than flossing” just by swishing it through your teeth for a few seconds.
“A mouth rinse can act as a ‘cleanser’ for the teeth before brushing,” adds Phillips. Remember, rinsing with water, especially water with natural fluoride, at the end of an oral care routine can help absorb minerals into the teeth.
However, Dr. Wei cautions against overusing mouthwash containing alcohol, as it can lead to dry mouth and irritation.
“It’s important to choose products recommended by dental professionals and follow instructions for proper use,” advises Dr. Wei.
“Remember to consult with your dentist for personalized recommendations based on your oral health needs.”
What are the benefits of flossing before brushing?
## The Right Order for Flossing, Brushing, and Mouthwash
**News Anchor:** Welcome back to Health Matters. Today, we’re tackling a common question: what’s the best order for flossing, brushing, and using mouthwash? Joining us is Dr. Mike Wei, DDS, to shed light on this oral hygiene puzzle. Welcome to the show, Dr. Wei.
**Dr. Wei:** Thanks for having me!
**News Anchor:** Let’s cut right to the chase – is there a definitive right order?
**Dr. Wei:** Absolutely! While all three are essential, the order absolutely impacts their effectiveness. Based on what we know, the most effective order is: **floss first, brush second, and finish with mouthwash.**
**News Anchor:** That’s interesting. Why is flossing first so important?
**Dr. Wei:** Think of it this way: flossing acts like a deep cleaning between your teeth, removing food debris and plaque that your toothbrush simply can’t reach. [[1](https://alvidental.com/4-steps-to-the-correct-order-to-brush/)]This ensures that when you brush, you’re working on a cleaner surface, allowing the toothpaste to do its job more effectively.
**News Anchor:** And where does mouthwash fit in?
**Dr. Wei:** Mouthwash acts as a final rinse, helping to kill any remaining bacteria and freshen breath. It basically seals the deal on your oral hygiene routine.
**News Anchor:** Great advice! Any other tips for our viewers?
**Dr. Wei:** Remember, consistency is key. Aim to floss and brush twice a day, and don’t skip the mouthwash! And of course, regular dental checkups are vital for maintaining optimal oral health.
**News Anchor:** Fantastic advice, Dr. Wei. Thank you for joining us today and shedding light on this important topic.
