Everyone knows that in addition to regular teeth cleanings, brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining a stunning smile. But do you know which to do first for optimum oral health? Until recently, few dentists advised one sequence over the other. As long as patients were brushing twice a day and flossing daily, their teeth, tongue, and gums were benefiting—and it showed during teeth cleanings; however, a new study indicates that one routine is more effective than the other. 

Why You Should Floss First...

Researchers have found that flossing before brushing can remove more plaque than flossing after. Although both sequences will dislodge plaque from between the teeth, brushing after flossing will also rinse it away. Flossing after brushing, on the other hand, leaves plaque and food particles in the mouth, where they can eventually get stuck back between the teeth until the next time you floss. 

...And Brush Second

The purpose of brushing is to scrub away debris, bacteria, and plaque that has accumulated on the surface of the teeth. Therefore, it makes sense that brushing second is ideal. When you floss and brush in this order, you allow both actions to achieve their highest effectiveness. 

If you follow the sequence recommended above and floss before brushing, you can maintain a luminous smile between dental visits. To ensure a healthy mouth, though, regular teeth cleanings are still essential. If it’s been more than six months since your last dentist appointment, turn to the office of Jerry A. Laws, DDS, and Caitlin Miller, DMD in Lexington, NC. For nearly 40 years, this practice has been providing comprehensive care for patients of all ages throughout Davidson County. To learn more about the dentistry services they offer, including preventive care, root canal treatment, sedation dentistry, and fillings, visit their website. Otherwise, call (336) 249-7708 to schedule a teeth cleaning today.