Brush, Floss, Rinse - What Should You Be Doing First?
Posted on 4/1/2025 by Sola Smile Co
When it comes to taking care of your teeth, you know the basics: brush twice a day, floss once a day, and rinse with mouthwash. But what order should you do these things in? Does it really matter?
The answer is yes, the order in which you clean your teeth can actually make a difference. Here's a breakdown of why each step is important and the best order to follow for optimal oral hygiene:
Brushing Your Teeth
Brushing your teeth removes plaque, a sticky film that builds up on your teeth and can lead to cavities. Plaque is constantly forming, so it's important to brush at least twice a day to remove it before it hardens into tartar.
When brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the backs and chewing surfaces.
Flossing
Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach. This is important because plaque buildup in between your teeth can also lead to cavities.
There are two main ways to floss:
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Traditional Flossing: Use a 18-24 inch piece of floss. Wrap the ends around your middle fingers and hold the floss taut with your thumbs and index fingers. Gently slide the floss between your teeth, using a sawing motion. Once the floss is between your teeth, curve it into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it up and down along the side of the tooth. Repeat on the other side of the tooth.
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Water Flossing: Use a water flosser to direct a stream of water between your teeth. Water flossers are a good option for people who have braces or difficulty using traditional floss.
Rinsing with Mouthwash
Mouthwash can help to freshen your breath and kill bacteria. However, it's important to note that mouthwash is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. It should be used as a supplement to these practices.
The Best Order for Cleaning Your Teeth
So, what's the best order to brush, floss, and rinse? The American Dental Association recommends the following:
1~
Brush your teeth: This will help to loosen plaque and make it easier to remove with floss.
2~
Floss your teeth: This will remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
3~
Rinse with mouthwash: This will help to freshen your breath and kill bacteria.
Following this order will help you to remove the most plaque and food particles from your teeth, which can help to prevent cavities and gum disease.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips for keeping your teeth healthy:
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See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
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Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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Limit sugary drinks and snacks.
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Avoid smoking and tobacco use.
By following these tips, you can keep your teeth healthy and strong for a lifetime.
Blog | Sola Smiles Co. | Austin, TX Stay connected with Sola Smile Co. through our blog! Find valuable articles on dental care, patient stories, and tips for a radiant smile in Austin, TX. Sola Smile Co. - Dr. Thomas Gent, 8701 Menchaca Road Building 3, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78748 / 512-615-9405 / solasmileaustin.com / 4/11/2025 / Page Terms:dentist Austin TX /
When it comes to taking care of your teeth, you know the basics: brush twice a day, floss once a day, and rinse with mouthwash. But what order should you do these things in? Does it really matter?