Brushing and flossing are essential parts of taking care of your oral health and ensuring that you don’t get cavities! If you want to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen, you need to do both — twice a day, every day. However, you might be wondering if doing one before the other is better. Our orthodontist in Chapel Hill explains here.
The Best Sequence
Studies show that the best sequence is to floss first and then brush. If you brush first and then floss, more plaque will remain on the teeth as it won’t be brushed away. Flossing first enhances dental plaque removal and increases the concentration of fluoride on your teeth, making you more resistant to cavities.
Extra Tools
If you have braces, there are dental tools that you can use to get between brackets and wires. You can also use these tools if you just want to get your teeth extra clean as well! These include:
- Irrigators, such as WaterPik, that shoot water in between appliances or teeth to remove debris
- A fluoride rinse to strengthen teeth and prevent decay
- Interproximal brushes — tiny brushes that can be used to dislodge plaque and debris from between the teeth.
If you have any questions about using special tools for your dental health, ask our doctor!
Other Maintenance Tips
Always get your regular checkups at our office to ensure that your gums and teeth are healthy. We can treat many conditions easily if we catch them early — so don’t wait until it’s too late. Additionally, regular cleanings keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright and white!
Contact Our Orthodontist in Chapel Hill Today To Schedule An Appointment!
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about retainers and other topics related to orthodontic treatment, feel free to contact Wilson Orthodontics, with a convenient orthodontic office in Chapel Hill by clicking here or by calling 919.371.0384.