What Should You Do First: Flossing or Brushing?

November 19, 2021

You don't need to be taught how important oral hygiene is. Take the time to ask a general dentist in Willow Knolls, IL, for some helpful advice.

Taking care of your teeth may help avoid cavities and gum disease, while contributing to a healthy set of pearly whites, in addition to fighting bad breath.

But, if you're like most people, you might not think about flossing and brushing your teeth in the correct order. It is recommended that you floss before cleaning your teeth.

This article will explain why flossing and brushing should be done in this order and advise on how to get the most out of both.

woman flossing her teeth as advised by her general dentist in Willow Knolls, IL

Flossing And Brushing

Brushing your teeth is only part of good dental care. Brushing your teeth is an effective technique to clean them, eliminate plaque, and prevent cavities. However, on its own, it is insufficient to maintain your teeth healthy and avoid gum disease.

Flossing helps to maintain excellent dental health by lifting and removing plaque and food from between your teeth. Brushing eliminates plaque and food particles, but toothbrush bristles can't reach deep enough between teeth to remove everything. Flossing aids in keeping your mouth as clean as possible.

Why Is Flossing Before Brushing Recommended?

Some people develop a habit of brushing then followed by flossing. The difficulty with this method is that any food, plaque, or germs released by flossing between your teeth stays in your mouth until you brush again.

On the other hand, the brushing movement eliminates these released particles from the mouth when you floss and then brush. Consequently, your mouth will have less dental plaque, and you will have a decreased chance of gum disease.

A short 2018 study found that when particles are removed first, the fluoride in your toothpaste is better equipped to accomplish its job of preserving your teeth.

Gum Disease Prevention

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an oral infection that damages the soft tissue and bones that surround your teeth. When there's too much bacteria on the surface of the teeth, gum disease develops.

Poor dental care can lead to this, such as not brushing or flossing correctly and skipping routine dental cleanings.

Gum disease symptoms include:

Stinky breath
Loose teeth

Gums that are swollen, red, and painful
Gums that are bleeding

Removes Plaque

It's essential to floss and brush every day since plaque is a major cause of gum disease. Plaque on the teeth generally hardens in 24 to 36 hours. The plaque will not solidify on your teeth if you floss and wash your teeth regularly.

Remember to spit away any leftover toothpaste in your mouth after flossing and brushing. You should not, however, rinse your mouth. Many individuals have been conditioned to rinse their mouths with water or mouthwash after brushing, so this may come as a surprise.

Here's Why You Shouldn't Rinse

You want your toothpaste's fluoride to stay on your teeth for as long as possible. So, resist the desire to rinse your teeth with water right after brushing. If you're worried about toothpaste residue in your mouth, swish approximately a teaspoon of water in your mouth and then spit.