Brush or Floss: Which Do You Do First?

Brush or Floss: Which Do You Do First?

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Brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist in Tucson are all essential elements of dental hygiene and oral health. However, many people are confused as to the order in which they should brush and floss. If you are among these people, read on to find out whether you should brush or floss first.
Brushing First
There are many theories floating around suggesting that it is better to brush your teeth before you floss. Some dental professionals claim that brushing first is better because of the fluoride in your toothpaste. Flossing your teeth after you brush them may allow the fluoride to find its way between the teeth more easily. It is important, however, that you brush your teeth using the proper technique. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle when brushing, and switch to a vertical motion for the backs of your front teeth. While flossing helps to remove bacteria from between your teeth, brushing can protect and bolster your enamel with the help of your fluoride toothpaste. Whether you brush first or last, be sure to brush properly.
Flossing First
The idea behind the benefit of flossing first is that flossing is not necessarily a pleasurable activity to engage in. It can be time consuming and uncomfortable for some people, so some professionals suggest that you get it out of the way first. However, this order has no proven bearing on its effectiveness.
Which Is Better?
Whether you brush your teeth and then floss or floss before brushing, the important part is that you do both. These two activities are essential steps in practicing dental hygiene and enjoying top oral health for the rest of your life. Remember to brush twice each day and floss once, whether you do so before or after brushing.
 
In addition to brushing and flossing, it is important to see your dentist in Tucson on a regular basis. John Carson, DDS is happy to offer dental crowns, teeth whitening, and other preventive and cosmetic dentistry procedures in Tucson. Feel free to visit his website or call the office at (520) 514-7203 for more information about his services.