Dentists Reveal the Correct Order for Brushing, Flossing, and Mouthwash.

What is the "right" order to brush, floss, and mouthwash?

Dr. Mike Wei, DDS, of New York City, advised Planet Chronicle Digital that the following order of oral hygiene steps is most beneficial for dental health.

1. Floss

2. Brush

3. Mouthwash

According to Wei, flossing effectively removes food debris and plaque between the teeth and along the gumline, which a toothbrush may not reach.

He explained that flossing before brushing and using mouthwash can help dislodge particles and bacteria from tight spaces, making it easier for the toothbrush and mouthwash to clean the remaining surfaces of your teeth.

The dentist advised that brushing with fluoride toothpaste can help remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles from the teeth' surface.

Wei stated that brushing after flossing helps to remove any particles loosened during flossing and ensures that all visible surfaces of teeth are thoroughly cleaned.

Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can aid in killing more bacteria and decreasing plaque accumulation after brushing.

Wei pointed out that mouthwashing can not only freshen breath but also reach areas that brushing or flossing may have missed.

He stated that by following the order of flossing, brushing, and using mouthwash, a comprehensive cleaning of teeth and gums can be achieved, resulting in improved oral hygiene and a decreased risk of dental problems, including cavities and gum disease.

Dental professionals commonly recommend this sequence to achieve optimal oral health, including reduced risk of cavities and gum disease, Wei stated.

Dr. Ellie Phillips, DDS, an oral health educator in Austin, Texas, emphasized that a mouth rinse can effectively clean teeth before brushing.

Salt water or chlorine dioxide mouthwashes can help remove acidity from food and drink particles and prevent them from being brushed into the teeth, according to her.

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After massaging the gums with a toothbrush and brushing with toothpaste, it's time to floss, Phillips said.

She advised against flossing after brushing because it could push toothpaste between your teeth.

The expert cautioned against using floss with PFAS chemicals, which can be harmful when pushed into the gums.

Phillips advises using a traditional mouthwash after flossing, as research indicates that it can be "five times more effective" in just a few seconds of swishing.

According to Phillips, author of the upcoming second edition of her book "Kiss Your Dentist Goodbye," rinsing with water, especially with natural fluoride, at the end of an oral care routine can help absorb minerals into the teeth.

Wei cautioned that excessive use of mouthwash with alcohol could result in dry mouth and irritation, despite the minimal risks to basic oral care.

Dental professionals recommend certain products, and it's crucial to follow their instructions for proper use, he emphasized.

"Your dentist can provide customized advice based on your oral health requirements."