Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for more than just fresh breath and a bright smile. According to latest news from dental experts, keeping your teeth clean plays a crucial role in preventing gum disease, cavities, and even health issues in other parts of the body.
Dr. Matthew Messina, clinical associate professor at Ohio State University College of Dentistry and a spokesperson for the American Dental Association, emphasizes that a solid oral care routine consists of four key elements:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing at least once a day
- Eating a healthy diet
- Visiting a dentist regularly
“If you do those four things, you’re already in a great place,” Messina said.
The Right Order for Cleaning Your Teeth
While many people follow their own routine, experts suggest that the order in which you clean your teeth can impact how effectively you remove bacteria. The goal, as Messina explains, is to control bacterial growth by disrupting it and reducing the food it feeds on.
“Bacteria in the mouth burn sugars and produce acid, which weakens enamel and leads to cavities,” he said. “Reducing the time bacteria have access to sugars and using fluoride-based products can prevent this breakdown.”
Dr. Michaela Gibbs, a professor and associate dean of clinical affairs at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine, agrees, stating that the proper order of cleaning teeth makes a difference in maximizing oral health benefits.
- Floss First – Flossing removes debris and plaque between teeth, areas that brushing alone can’t reach. By flossing first, you loosen particles so that brushing can effectively clean the rest.
- Brush Second – Brushing ensures that the surfaces of your teeth are thoroughly cleaned. Experts recommend using a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
- Use Mouthwash Last – A fluoride-based mouthwash as the final step can provide additional protection, as long as it does not contain alcohol, which can dry out the mouth.
While scientific studies on the exact order of oral hygiene are limited, this method is widely accepted across the dental profession.
Should You Rinse After Brushing?
Many people have the habit of rinsing their mouth with water after brushing. However, Gibbs suggests that skipping the rinse may be more beneficial.
“The key is to retain as much fluoride from the toothpaste on your teeth as possible,” she explained. “Fluoride works best when it sits on the teeth for up to 30 minutes after brushing.”
If you rinse immediately after brushing, you wash away the fluoride, reducing its effectiveness in protecting enamel. Dr. Rocio B. Quinonez, associate dean for curriculum at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Adams School of Dentistry, adds that a small change in routine—such as waiting before rinsing or using a fluoride mouthwash instead—can significantly improve dental health.
Daily Habits That Support Oral Health
Beyond brushing and flossing, small daily habits can make a big difference in oral hygiene. Experts recommend:
- Using an electric toothbrush – While a manual toothbrush can work well, electric toothbrushes are often more effective in removing plaque.
- Flossing regularly – Water flossers can be helpful, but traditional floss remains the gold standard.
- Drinking plenty of water – Water helps wash away food debris and restores the pH balance in the mouth, reducing acidity that can lead to cavities.
- Avoiding sugary and acidic foods – Foods and drinks high in sugar or acid (including some fruits) can weaken enamel, so it’s best to rinse with water after consuming them.
Consistency Matters More Than Order
While the recommended order—floss, brush, rinse—can be beneficial, the most important factor is consistency in maintaining a daily oral care routine.
“It’s about finding what works best for you and sticking with it,” Messina said. “If one way isn’t working, try another method and see what feels most effective.”
With proper oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and mindful eating habits, anyone can achieve strong, healthy teeth. And with economic news updates highlighting the rising costs of dental care, prevention through daily habits remains the best investment in long-term health.
