Floss Before or After Brushing: Here’s What Experts Say
Introduction Have you flossed today? If you haven’t yet joined the flossing routine, now is the perfect time to start! Flossing is crucial for maintaining a healthy and happy mouth. If you’re not seeing the results you expect from your flossing routine, you might need to consider when you’re flossing. Timing can be surprisingly important!
In this article, we’ll cover:
1. The benefits of flossing before or after brushing
2. Expert opinions from reputable medical associations, including the American Dental Association
3. Research findings that address this common flossing question
By the end of this article, you’ll be confident in your dental hygiene routine.
Let’s get started!
Should You Floss Before or After Brushing? The sequence of flossing and brushing doesn’t matter as long as you do both thoroughly. Consistency is key, so make sure you floss all your teeth and brush for at least two minutes each time. Tailor your routine to fit your specific needs and preferences. Flossing is crucial for good dental hygiene because it removes plaque and food particles trapped between your teeth. While brushing also eliminates plaque and food debris, it can’t reach the tight spaces between teeth like floss can. Therefore, flossing ensures your mouth stays as clean as possible.
Make sure to floss every tooth (or as many as you can reach) and brush for at least two minutes, covering all tooth surfaces. If you prefer to floss first and then brush away the loosened particles (or use floss as a finishing touch after brushing), that’s perfectly fine as long as you’re thorough.
Additionally, adapt your routine to your specific situation, such as having braces, implants, or other dental work. Expert Opinions Numerous studies affirm the importance of both brushing and flossing for dental care. Let’s see what experts have to say about the order of these activities. Dr. Anjum Chaudhary (BDS, MDS) recommends flossing before brushing for optimal benefits. The American Dental Association (ADA) states that the order doesn’t impact oral hygiene. What’s essential is consistency and thoroughness. Always floss when you brush to avoid forgetting it later.
Daily flossing is linked to reduced gingivitis and gum disease. A study by Londero and colleagues in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry found that flossing enhances the protective effects of toothbrushing on gingivitis. Another analysis by Silva and colleagues showed no significant plaque differences between floss-brush and brush- floss groups. However, a clinical trial revealed that flossing before brushing reduces interdental plaque and increases fluoride concentration more effectively than the reverse order.
Is There a Benefit to Flossing Before or After Brushing?
There’s no definitive benefit to flossing before or after brushing as long as every tooth gets attention. Prioritize your personal routine preferences. Choosing a toothpaste and floss combo you enjoy is essential for maintaining consistency. Check out our n-HA Toothpasteand Ela Mint Floss, which reduce the toxic effects of fluoride.
Additional Tips
Now that you’re up to date on flossing and brushing recommendations, here are some tips to maximize your oral hygiene.
Effective Brushing
Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Gentle on your gums and effective at removing food particles.
2. Brush for at Least Two Minutes: This ensures thorough cleaning, including hard-to-reach areas like your gums, tongue, and back molars.
3. Brush All Tooth Surfaces: Focus on the fronts, backs, and tops of your teeth.
4. Use Gentle, Circular Motions: This technique effectively cleans your mouth without causing damage.
5. Angle the Brush at 45 Degrees Towards the Gum Line: Cleans your gums without excessive brushing.
6. Brush Your Tongue and the Roof of Your Mouth: Removes bacteria from these areas for a cleaner mouth.
7. Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly: Every 3-4 months or sooner if bristles are frayed.
Effective Flossing
Use an 18-Inch Piece of Floss: Adequate length ensures a clean section for each tooth.
2. Hold the Floss Tightly: Wrap it around your thumb and fingers for better control.
3. Gently Slide the Floss Between Your Teeth: Be gentle to avoid gum irritation.
4. Curve the Floss Around Each Tooth in () Shape: Ensures better coverage and cleaning.
5. Slide the Floss Up and Down Against the Tooth and Below the Gum Line: Removes particles and plaque from critical areas.
6. Use a Clean Section for Each Tooth: Prevents the spread of debris and bacteria.
Closing Remarks
You’re well on your way to becoming a pro at brushing and flossing! Remember to brush and floss in whichever order feels right for you, just make sure to do a thorough job. Your teeth are counting on you. Take care!
