To Floss Before Or After Brushing? That Is The Question.
Posted on 12/15/2025 by Dr. Darren Huddleston
Have you ever wondered if there's a "right" way to tackle your daily oral hygiene routine? Many people ponder the order in which they should brush and floss. Let's dive into the debate and explore the benefits of each approach.
WHY FLOSSING MATTERS
Flossing is a crucial part of keeping your mouth healthy. Your toothbrush bristles can't reach every nook and cranny, especially between your teeth. This is where food particles and plaque like to hide. If left undisturbed, they can lead to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Think of flossing as your secret weapon against these unwanted dental issues. It disrupts the plaque and removes the debris that your toothbrush misses.
THE CASE FOR FLOSSING BEFORE BRUSHING
Some dentists recommend flossing before brushing, and here's why. When you floss first, you loosen up the plaque and food particles nestled between your teeth. Brushing afterward then sweeps away all that debris. This helps the fluoride in your toothpaste reach those interdental spaces more effectively, giving you better protection against cavities. Imagine it like this: flossing is like prepping a surface for cleaning, and brushing is like doing the actual scrubbing.
THE CASE FOR BRUSHING BEFORE FLOSSING
On the other hand, some dentists suggest brushing before flossing. Their reasoning is that brushing removes a large amount of plaque and food debris from the surfaces of your teeth. This makes it easier to focus on the areas between your teeth when you floss. It might be easier to get the floss in those tight spots if they're not already packed with debris.
THE BOTTOM LINE: CONSISTENCY IS KEY
While there are arguments to be made for both approaches, the most important thing is that you floss at all. The order in which you floss and brush is less important than the simple act of doing both consistently. Aim to floss at least once a day, every day. Make it a habit, just like brushing.
TECHNIQUE TRUMPS ORDER
No matter when you choose to floss, make sure you're doing it correctly. Use a fresh section of floss for each tooth, and gently slide it between your teeth. Curve the floss into a "C" shape around each tooth and move it up and down, getting slightly below the gumline. Avoid snapping the floss, which can damage your gums.
TALK TO YOUR DENTIST
Ultimately, the best way to determine the right flossing and brushing order for you is to talk to your dental professional. They can assess your specific needs and recommend a personalized oral hygiene routine. They can also demonstrate proper flossing techniques to ensure you're getting the most benefit from your efforts. So, schedule a visit and get their expert opinion. A healthy smile is worth it!
About Us • Dentist Grants Pass, OR • The Center for Esthetic Dentistry We want your visit to the Center for Esthetic Dentistry to be a 5-star experience! Call our professionals today to schedule an appointment! The Center for Esthetic Dentistry, 1035 Northeast 6th St., Grants Pass, OR 97526 / 541-476-8788 / drhuddleston.com / 12/31/2025 / Tags: dentist Grants Pass OR /
Have you ever wondered if there's a "right" way to tackle your daily oral hygiene routine? Many people ponder the order in which they should brush and floss. Let's dive into the debate and explore the benefits of each approach.