Ask five people whether you should floss before or after brushing, and you’ll likely get five different answers. Even among patients who floss regularly, the order is often a mystery. Many think brushing first makes sense; others swear by flossing before. The truth is, order does matter; dentists and research suggest that flossing before brushing tends to give better results.
Importance of Flossing and Brushing Properly
Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between teeth and under the gumline, areas where your toothbrush can’t reach. If plaque is left there, it can harden into tartar, cause cavities, lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis), or even gum disease. The Mayo Clinic also notes that flossing daily helps prevent plaque buildup in hard-to-reach areas, lowering the risk of gum disease (Mayo Clinic).
Brushing twice a day for two minutes each time with fluoride toothpaste helps to remove plaque from the surfaces of your teeth, neutralize acids, and strengthen enamel. The ADA recommends this routine as part of home oral care to prevent caries and gingivitis.
Proper Technique for Brushing
- Use a soft-bristle brush. Hard or medium bristles can damage enamel and irritate gums.
- Angle the brush at about 45 degrees toward the gum line, so the bristles can reach the margin where gums meet teeth.
- Use small, gentle circular motions rather than scrubbing back and forth.
- Brush all surfaces: outer, inner, chewing surfaces; upper and lower. Don’t forget the back teeth and under the tongue.
- Brush for at least two minutes, twice a day.
Proper Technique for Flossing
- Use about 18 inches (about 45 cm) of floss; wrap most of it around one middle finger, the rest around the other.
- Slide the floss gently between teeth, following a C shape against one tooth, then against the neighboring tooth.
- Move the floss up and down gently; don’t snap or force it into the gum.
- Reach the gumline, slightly below it, but gently so you don’t cut or irritate the gums.
- Floss once a day. If you find string floss difficult, water flossers or interdental brushes are good alternatives.
What Happens If You're Doing Things the Wrong Way
- Brushing too hard or with the wrong technique can cause enamel wear, gum recession, and tooth sensitivity.
- Flossing improperly (snapping floss into gums, using too much force, or skipping spaces) can damage gums or leave plaque behind.
- Combined wrong order (flossing after brushing or skipping floss) means debris may remain, and fluoride from toothpaste may not reach some areas.
Even if you’ve been doing it wrong, it’s never too late to improve. Making adjustments can reduce sensitivity, improve gum health, and help protect enamel. Your dentist can help with fluoride treatments or recommend a gentle toothpaste or products if you have sensitivity.
What About Water Flossers?
Many patients find traditional floss uncomfortable or awkward. Water flossers are a gentler, more convenient option, especially for people with braces or sensitive gums. The Remi Cordless Water Flosser uses a stream of water to flush out plaque and debris, helping fluoride from toothpaste reach more areas.
Flossing and brushing are both essential; floss first to loosen debris, then brush so fluoride and toothpaste can clean thoroughly. Use correct brushing and flossing techniques to avoid damage and give your teeth and gums the best care. Remi’s Cordless Water Flosser is a helpful tool if traditional floss is difficult; pairing that with good brushing habits will keep your oral health strong.
