Menu

02 9683 5924
Location
Book Online
Book Online

Should You Floss First or Brush First? The Best Order for a Healthier Smile

Home/Dentist Carlingford/Should You Floss First or Brush First? The Best Order for a Healthier Smile

A proper oral hygiene routine is essential for maintaining strong teeth and healthy gums. However, a common question people ask is: should you floss first or brush first? While both brushing and flossing are crucial for removing plaque and food particles, the order in which you do them can make a difference in your overall oral health.

Flossing First vs. Brushing First: What’s Better?

Both brushing and flossing serve unique purposes. Brushing cleans the surfaces of your teeth, while flossing removes debris and plaque from between them. Many experts recommend flossing first, and here’s why:

Benefits of Flossing First

  1. Removes Hidden Debris First – Flossing helps dislodge food particles and plaque stuck between your teeth, making it easier for your toothbrush to remove them afterward.
  2. Allows Fluoride to Penetrate Better – When you brush after flossing, fluoride from the toothpaste can reach deeper between your teeth, strengthening enamel and preventing cavities.
  3. Encourages a More Thorough Routine – Flossing first ensures you don’t skip this essential step, as some people tend to forget it after brushing.

Reduces Plaque Buildup More Effectively – Studies suggest that flossing before brushing may remove more plaque compared to the reverse order.

Is Brushing First Still Effective?

If you prefer to brush first, you’re still benefiting from essential oral care. Here’s why some people choose this method:

  • It provides an immediate clean feeling in the mouth.
  • The minty freshness from toothpaste can be motivating.
  • Flossing afterward removes any remaining food particles loosened during brushing.

While brushing first is still effective, flossing first maximizes the benefits of your oral hygiene routine.

The Best Way to Floss and Brush

Regardless of the order, how you floss and brush is just as important as when you do it. Follow these steps for the best results:

How to Floss Properly

  1. Use about 18 inches of floss, wrapping most of it around your fingers and leaving a small section to work with.
  2. Gently slide the floss between each tooth, curving it into a C-shape and moving it up and down along the tooth’s surface.
  3. Avoid snapping the floss into the gums to prevent irritation.
  4. Use a clean section of floss for each tooth.

How to Brush Effectively

  1. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
  2. Brush for at least two minutes, covering all surfaces of your teeth (front, back, and chewing surfaces).
  3. Use gentle, circular motions rather than aggressive scrubbing.
  4. Don’t forget to brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.
  5. Spit out the toothpaste but avoid rinsing immediately to allow fluoride to work longer.

Final Verdict: Floss First for the Best Results

For optimal oral health, dentists generally recommend flossing first, followed by brushing. This sequence helps remove more plaque, enhances fluoride absorption, and leads to healthier teeth and gums. However, the most important thing is that you consistently brush and floss every day, no matter the order.

At Dream Smiles Dental, we are committed to helping you achieve and maintain excellent oral hygiene. If you have any questions about the best practices for flossing and brushing, our team is here to help.

Book Your Dental Check-Up Today!

Regular dental visits are essential for keeping your smile healthy. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure your oral hygiene routine is on the right track!