We encourage all of our patients to practice good oral hygiene habits by brushing and flossing daily.
But which of these do you do first as part of your routine? A study published towards the end of last year has revealed that it is actually best to floss before we brush our teeth. The Oral Health Foundation conducted the research, and concluded that interdental cleaning before brushing is the most effective way of cleaning our teeth.
What did the study find?
The study, conducted by the Oral Health Foundation, found that those who clean between their teeth before brushing enjoyed a much cleaner mouth than those who did their interdental cleaning afterwards. Flossing works by loosening bacteria and food particles from between the teeth, which then makes it easier to remove plaque with your toothbrush.
The study, which was published in the Journal of Periodontology highlights the importance of flossing. Brushing alone simply doesn’t clean all the surfaces of the teeth, and interdental cleaning (either by means of flossing or with the use of an interdental brush) helps to remove plaque from hard-to-reach places in the mouth. Interestingly, the study also found that interdental cleaning before brushing made it more likely that fluoride would stay in the mouth. Fluoride is a mineral that helps to protect the teeth against decay and strengthens the enamel against the effects of acid.
How can we help?
We recommend that you come in and see us regularly so that we can address any questions you have about correct brushing and flossing techniques, and help you find the best oral health products for your needs. Frequent dental visits will also allow us to check your teeth and gums and make sure that they are healthy. We’ll diagnose and treat any issues early, and ensure that your oral health is maintained in the long-term.
We also encourage you to bring in your children for regular check-ups. The first check-up can be performed as early as two years old. In fact, we love treating children!
Would you like to make an appointment? Please get in touch with our friendly team.
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