Should You Floss Before or After Brushing?

To floss before or after brushing? That is the question at the forefront of many of our patient’s minds. In this blog we will explore the two choices.

Before Brushing Advocates

Advocates for flossing before brushing insist that the food and plaque dislodged by flossing allow fluoridated toothpaste to reach the nooks and crannies of the teeth. They believe this allows for a better shield against tooth decay and periodontal diseases. If you’re prone to cavities or gum infections, then flossing before brushing may help alleviate some of these problems.

Flossing before brushing can also help to create a habit of flossing if you’re used to only brushing.

After Brushing Advocates

Flossing after you brush is arguably the most common method. Many who do it this way believe that’s the way it’s been presented for years. “Brush and floss every day” sound as though flossing should naturally follow brushing.

Oral health professionals might advise that you don’t rinse the toothpaste away until after you floss to help fluoride and abrasives reach those easy-to-miss areas. Most will say that a consistent, proper flossing technique is just as effective even if you rinse after brushing.

The Choice is Yours as Long as You’re Flossing!

While flossing before or after is a hot-button issue in some corners of the oral hygiene community, other corners are just happy to hear that people are flossing at all after finding out roughly one-third of Americans never floss.

Find a floss that’s comfortable, affordable, and effective for you. If you find flossing difficult or have dental work like braces, crowns or bridges, a water flosser may help you get the most effective clean.

High-Quality Dental Care in Summerville, South Carolina

Good, consistent oral hygiene habits help to keep your smile bright and your body healthy! in addition to daily brushing and flossing, regular visits to your dentist are a great way to keep your mouth happy!

Call Seastone Dental today to schedule your visit!

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Categorised in: Oral Health, Oral Hygiene