Introduction to a Healthy Dental Routine
The easiest way to start your day off right is with a dental routine that leaves your mouth feeling fresh, clean and healthy. But it’s not so easy to do everything you need to do in the right order every single bleary-eyed morning. The order that you brush and floss in can be a major factor in your ability to get all the gunk out of your teeth, experts say.
Expert Tip of the Day: Floss Your Teeth Before You Brush Them
Many people find it easier and more effective to remove any larger pieces of food or gunk between their teeth before brushing, Dr. Mia Geisinger, president of the American Academy of Periodontology, told NBC News recently. So, flossing before brushing may be a better routine in a lot of cases. That might be why most people do floss first, as Dr. Erin Lobo-Marwah, group practice leader at the UCLA School of Dentistry, told TODAY.com.
However, the truth is that, as long you’re doing both correctly and on a regular basis, it doesn’t really matter whether you brush or floss first, Dr. Brittany Seymour, spokesperson for the American Dental Association and associate professor at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, told TODAY.com previously. And the ADA agrees that the order largely comes down to personal preference — as long as both steps happen.
Why It Matters
There are two major steps to any good oral care routine: brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once. Flossing helps remove plaque and food debris from between your teeth which, if left alone, could contribute to tooth decay and gum recession. But these habits are only effective if you’re doing them properly. And while the order of flossing and brush may not affect your dental health, flossing first helps ensure that you actually get both steps done. Some people have a habit of brushing first and then "skip flossing because they think their mouth feels clean or are short on time or tired," the ADA says. These folks who "postpone flossing for some later time are likely missing out because flossing may never happen."
How to Get Started
If you’re in need of a dental care morning routine, Dr. Kami Hoss, co-founder of The Super Dentists in San Diego, California, recommended these steps for optimal results:
- Before breakfast or coffee, rinse with mouth wash.
- Floss or use a water flosser.
- Brush with a safe and effective toothpaste and a tooth brush with soft bristles.
- Repeat this routine before bed. However, brushing, flossing and using mouth wash in different orders can have different benefits, so there is still some disagreement in the field.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the order of brushing and flossing may not have a significant impact on dental health, flossing before brushing can be a more effective routine for many people. It’s essential to find a routine that works for you and to do both steps correctly and regularly. If you’re unsure about the best approach for your particular dental situation, it’s always best to consult with your dentist.
FAQs
- Q: Should I floss or brush first?
A: While the order may not matter, many experts recommend flossing before brushing to remove larger pieces of food and debris. - Q: How often should I floss and brush?
A: You should floss at least once a day and brush your teeth twice a day. - Q: Is mouth wash necessary?
A: Mouth wash is generally optional, but it can be helpful for certain individuals. - Q: What type of toothpaste and toothbrush should I use?
A: You should use a safe and effective toothpaste and a toothbrush with soft bristles. - Q: Can I use a water flosser instead of string?
A: Yes, a water flosser can be a suitable alternative to traditional flossing, and your dentist may recommend it for your particular dental situation.
