To rinse, or not to rinse? That is the question – as well as whether it’s actually better to rinse before or after you brush! This dental debate is surprisingly nuanced, but don’t worry. Simply keep reading, and this post will lay out the information you need to consider so you can build the perfect oral hygiene routine for your smile.

Why People Rinse After Brushing

As you might know, most toothpaste products you find at the store contain small amounts of fluoride. Swishing warm water around your mouth after cleaning your teeth, some people argue, helps you avoid ingesting this chemical. Plus, it can take the edge off all that mint flavor stuck in your oral cavity.

There’s a pretty significant flaw in this myth, though: fluoride is only harmful when ingested in very large amounts. You’d probably have to eat an entire tube of toothpaste and then some to experience any ill effects! In fact, since fluoride has to sit on your teeth for about 20 minutes in order to protect your smile from cavities, rinsing after you brush could actually have a negative impact on your oral hygiene.

The Argument for Rinsing Before Brushing

If you want to give your smile some extra cavity-fighting power, then rinsing your mouth before brushing your teeth can be a good idea. Instead of plain water, though, mix in a little bit of salt. Salt is great for promoting healing as well as eliminating oral bacteria. Alternatively, you can purchase a mouthwash that contains fluoride. Swish as directed by the product instructions for the best results!

Is Rinsing Your Mouth Worth It?

Maybe you’re wondering if rinsing your mouth at all is really worth it. The answer is it can be, but it depends on your own unique preferences. Some like the reassurance of including another cavity-busting habit in their oral hygiene routine, while others need to keep things simple in order to stay motivated. At the end of the day, the best routine is one that encourages you to brush and floss every day, so do what feels good and check in with your dentist for more advice!

About the Practice

At Fort Dental, we believe that going to the dentist doesn’t have to be unpleasant – and neither does brushing your teeth. Our four compassionate and friendly dentists love helping patients find the best oral hygiene solutions for them. They’d be happy to offer additional tips and tricks for keeping your smile clean and pristine! To contact our office and schedule an appointment, please call 817-292-5957.