Is It Better To Floss Or Brush First?

April 19, 2019

Tips For Excellent Dental Health

You’ve heard it over and over: brushing and flossing is important for your dental health. But have you ever wondered which should be done first for a proper dental hygiene regimen? Keep reading to learn the answer and discover more dental health tips from your trusted orthodontic providers at Utah Orthodontic Care.

Brushing or Flossing: Which Comes First

There are many different opinions on this topic. Some argue that brushing should be done first to remove the majority of plaque and bits of food from the teeth. Then, flossing will force the remaining fluoride from the toothpaste in between the teeth for a more thorough clean.

Others maintain that flossing first allows food particles to be loosened and then washed away by toothbrushing, and that the fluoride is more effective when the food is removed beforehand.

So, which is the correct way to clean your smile? Simply put, both are. When it comes to caring for your smile, your personal preference is perfect—as long as you are doing both.

Brushing & Flossing Are Equally Important

Many people think that brushing alone is enough to keep their mouth clean and free of cavities. However, this is not true. Your teeth are not only a front and back—they also have sides. If you neglect to floss, you leave the in-between spaces prone to tooth decay. Remember, cavities can also occur in between your teeth! Flossing effectively cleans the spaces where your toothbrush can’t reach. That’s why it’s so important to brush and floss daily. In addition to maintaining a good dental hygiene regimen, you should also keep regular visits to your dentist for exams and professional cleanings. Visiting your dentist every six months will protect against serious problems and keep your dental health in top shape.

Contact Your Orthodontic Specialists Today!

At Utah Orthodontic Care, we want our patients’ stunning smiles to last a lifetime. That’s why we aren’t just concerned with correcting the visible smiles of our patients—we also want to help them maintain optimal oral health. If you have any questions related to dental hygiene, we encourage you to contact us, and we’ll be happy to discuss them with you. And if you’d like to get started with braces or Clear Correct, schedule an appointment today! We can’t wait to help you achieve the smile of your dreams!