Taking care of dental hygiene is an integral part of overall health. Since the beginning, it has been instilled in our minds to brush and floss twice a day. But what is the need of doing so? Why do dentists emphasize so much on this regime? You may think that floss after brushing is not an essential part of the routine, but trust us, it is necessary. Taking adequate care of your oral health ensures proper teeth condition and prevents cavities, bad breath and gum disease.
While many professionals emphasize the fact of practicing both floss and brushing, no one has focused on which should be done after? If you are also among those confused individuals searching for proper order, keep reading this blog to find your answer.
Floss helps reduce the bacterial load that consequently leads to plaque and breakdown of the enamel, which results in tooth decay. Flossing helps get rid of plaque in those areas that regular brush can’t reach.
Should You Floss Before Or After Brushing?
In reality, the answer to this question will surprise you. While both the components of this regime are necessary, would a particular sequence make any difference? Yes, it does matter, and let’s find out why that is so.
People think that flossing before or after brushing teeth won’t make a difference, but it does. This blog may serve as a revelation for many individuals that floss after brushing may not be as effective as the opposite. A study suggests that floss before brushing teeth rather than after is better in terms of cleaning.
Flossing after having a meal helps get rid of coarse particles between the teeth, followed by a fluoride toothpaste brushing which helps in better retention and absorption of the element on the teeth. Fluoride is an essential mineral that rejuvenates enamel that suffers from constant wear and tear, saving it from cavities and decay.
Flossing is the missing link in your complete dental regime. There are tiny spaces between your teeth that are not visible to the naked eye. Food particles are sneaky; they hide in those
voids, which cause plaque buildup and decay. Floss ensures loosening up of those particles; brushing helps get rid of them further with rinse as a finale flushing it away.
How does Floss Before Brushing Rather than After Help?
Here’s how practicing the said sequence helps in keeping the dental health in check:
Prevention of Gum Disease
Gum or periodontal disease is an infection of the mouth that harms your gums’ soft tissues and bones. These structures are responsible for handling the teeth on your jaw bone. When the bacterial quantity goes overboard, it starts spreading from the teeth’ surface towards the gums.
The bacterial buildup results from poor oral hygiene due to improper regime and skipping deep dental cleanup by a professional. Some signs and symptoms of gum disease are:
- Bad mouth odor
- Tender, red-colored swollen gums
- Loosely hanging teeth
- Gum bleed
Plaque Removal
Plaque is inevitable when there is a bacterial buildup on the teeth, which is the leading factor of gum diseases. It is important to get rid of food debris and bacteria between the teeth with the help of floss and brushing after a thorough cleaning. Usually, plaque takes about 24 to 36 hours to correctly form a film, so floss and brushing after can significantly reduce buildup chances.
Make Floss First Part of Your Routine
It is a common practice of brushing first thing in the morning and right before hopping in the bed. Many people cannot imagine starting or ending their way otherwise. This change for them may be difficult.
Still, many Americans do not consider flossing as an essential part of their regime. According to a survey, just 16% of the total subjects floss per day; on the other hand, 20% said they do so but under one condition – if any food particle gets stuck between the teeth large enough to cause pain.
Many people responded that floss takes up extra time, and in this fast-paced world, no one can afford to be late. While it may seem like a tedious task right now but it has its benefits in the longer run. Proper cleaning ensures protection from tooth decay.
How to Make Flossing a Regular Part of the Regime?
Since you have realized its importance, you have already reached the first step. Now, in order to get into the habit of flossing, choose a time that you will do it on a daily basis. That may be in the morning, right after lunch or before going to bed.
Personal preference is important because it will reduce the reluctance of doing it and won’t feel like a task rather than a routine. Place your floss right beside your toothbrush so that you can always choose to floss first and brushing after. Once you keep doing it for a week, the next thing you know is that you are voluntarily going at it without extra effort.
Dental Hygiene Tips
Do not Pick Food with Toothpicks
Skip the toothpick if anything gets stuck in between your teeth and floss instead. Picking food particles out this way can result in gum damage.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Fluoride helps strengthen the enamel preventing decay.
Be Gentle
Aggressive brushing or floss results in gum damage and recession from the line.
Do not Skip Professional Dental Cleaning
It is important that you visit your dentist at least 3-4 times annually for deep dental cleaning. They have tools that surpass regular cleaning and ensure a healthy mouth.
Do You Floss Before Or After Brushing?
If your regime is different, consider modifying it for maximum results. Floss first and brushing after is beneficial and healthy for your oral cavity health. However, make time for getting your teeth professionally cleaned. Book the best dentist in San Diego at Nimmi Shine Dental; call 858 999 8550 San Diego