By the time we are adults, we most likely have our dental routine down to a science. Some of us rinse, floss and then brush. While others might floss first and then brush. But, have you ever wondered what the optimal process really is when it comes to flossing and brushing? At Dental Associates of Delaware, we\u2019re here to help guide you through your oral hygiene journey. As always, if you ever have any questions about your oral hygiene regiment we encourage you to contact our team at our office in Brandywine, Hockessin, Middletown, Wilmington, Millsboro, or Ocean View, DE.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
There are many differing theories on when you should floss for optimal oral hygiene. One theory states that it is best to floss first to loosen up the plaque and food particles that have gathered in between your teeth. However, the argument against that is- then when you brush your teeth the plaque will get wedged back in between your teeth, and since you\u2019ve already flossed\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then there is the matter of the mouthwash – where does that fit in? Do you want to loosen everything in the beginning or do a final sweep at the end and spit it all out? These are great questions to explore!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While there are so many different answers from multiple resources, as long as you are both brushing and flossing, you are doing what you should be doing for your teeth! While brushing your teeth removes plaque from the tooth it cannot complete the job on it\u2019s own. Cleaning between your teeth daily removes debris that your toothbrush just cannot reach. We are always encouraging our patients to make sure they are maintaining a healthy smile by brushing and flossing regularly. No matter what order you do them in! And, adding in mouthwash is never a bad idea either!<\/p>\n\n\n\n