You have probably had the same brushing routine from a young age: brush, rinse, and spit. Countless Americans have the same routine for healthy teeth and gums, but is it really the best method? Believe it or not, dentists don’t always recommend rinsing after brushing, and here’s why.
Rinsing Your Mouth After Brushing
Brushing is your first line of defense against preventable dental issues, like tooth decay and gum disease. The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth for 2 minutes twice daily, if not after every meal.
Brushing does more than keep your breath fresh. It removes food particles and plaque from your mouth. However, toothpaste also contains ingredients meant to keep your teeth healthy, like fluoride.
Fluoride is a naturally occurring substance that’s often referred to as “nature’s cavity fighter.” It is proven to strengthen enamel to make it more resistant to cavity-causing bacteria. It can even help remineralize enamel to reverse the early stages of decay.
Fluoride is found in many types of toothpaste to promote healthy smiles. While it’s effective, you may not obtain its full benefits if you rinse your mouth immediately after brushing.
When Should You Rinse?
If you’re rinsing right away, you’re not giving your toothpaste enough time to do its job. Dental professionals recommended waiting at least 30 minutes before rinsing to obtain the maximum benefits of your toothpaste. They also recommend that you don’t eat or drink anything during that time.
If you can’t stand the gritty feeling or minty taste of toothpaste in your mouth, use something neutral, like water. Don’t rinse vigorously. Instead, just give the water a quick swish before letting it run out of your mouth into the sink.
Commit to Healthy Teeth and Gums
Brushing is only a portion of the care your smile needs to stay healthy. You should also floss your teeth at least once daily. Flossing is the only way to clean areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Brushing alone can leave 40% of your teeth surfaces uncleaned. Use high-quality floss to clean between each tooth and around the gum line.
Eat a nutritious diet and limit how often you have sugary foods and drinks. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated to keep your mouth moist.
Besides caring for your smile at home, visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll remove any plaque or tartar and monitor your dental health.
Healthy teeth and gums are possible with the right dental products, a good oral hygiene routine, and regular care from a dentist. Don’t let something as simple as rinsing your mouth place your smile at risk of decay. Stop spitting the cavity-fighting benefits of toothpaste down the drain.
About Dr. Mark E. Lawton
Dr. Lawton earned his dental degree at the University of Texas Health Science Center and has regularly pursued continuing education to provide specialty services, like cosmetic dentistry. He has nearly 20 years of experience in the dental field. Request an appointment through our website or call (832) 353-2962.