Should You Use Mouthwash Before or After Brushing? Dentist in Worthington Weighs In

We all know that we’re supposed to brush our teeth at least twice every day and floss before we go to bed. Some of us even add rinsing with mouthwash to that routine. But does it matter what order you do these things in? That all depends on who you ask. A dentist in Worthington, PA is here to clear up the issue.

According to the American Dental Association

The American Dental Association, or the ADA, claims that the order in which you brush and use mouthwash doesn’t matter. The ADA says that as long as you use quality products for both steps, your teeth will benefit either way.

According to the National Health Service

The National Health Service has a different opinion. They say that you can use mouthwash right after brushing if you use a fluoride rinse. However, be sure to not use a non-fluoride mouthwash immediately after brushing. It can wash away the fluoride leftover on your teeth from the toothpaste, so it basically defeats one of the main purposes of brushing your teeth, which is to strengthen your enamel with fluoride.

What Does Your Dentist in Worthington Say?

Your dentist would have to agree with what the National Health Service has to say. You want as much fluoride to remain on your teeth as possible, which is why it’s recommended to use both toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride as a main ingredient. It makes your teeth stronger and less vulnerable to cavities.

Many of us rinse our mouths with water right after we use mouthwash, but most dental professionals will agree that it’s a bad idea. You’re washing off the protective film on your teeth that you just applied with the toothpaste. In addition, mouthwash continues to work long after you spit it out, strengthening your enamel and area of your teeth and gums that are hard to reach with a toothbrush and floss. Rinsing with water dilutes the mouthwash and removes the benefits.  

Taking proper care of our oral health is actually a lot more complicated than simply brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash every day! If you have any more questions, contact your dentist for details.

About the Author

Dr. LJ Adam followed in his parents’ footsteps by working at their family dental practice after he received his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine in 2004. He is certified in CEREC, a technology that makes it easier to provide patients with crowns, veneers, inlays, and onlays. To learn more about how to maintain a good daily oral health routine, contact Dr. Adam at (724)-297-3446.