Growing up, you were probably taught to rinse your mouth with water after brushing your teeth to wash away all the foamy toothpaste. However, some people choose not to rinse at all because they believe it’s better for their oral health. So, what’s the right thing to do? Read along to find out what you should be doing after brushing your teeth!
Are You Supposed to Rinse After Brushing?
Short answer: no, you should not rinse your mouth immediately after brushing your teeth. Most toothpastes contain an active ingredient called fluoride, which is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay. When you rinse with water after brushing, you’re prematurely washing out the fluoride that’s working on your teeth. It may not feel great at first, but leaving residual toothpaste in your mouth can help fight against tooth decay.
Possible Risks of Not Rinsing After Brushing
Even though it’s generally considered safe to avoid rinsing after brushing your teeth, there are some side effects to consider. For instance, ingesting too much fluoride can result in nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Of course, these side effects are extremely rare if you only use a pea-sized amount of fluoride. They’re more common in children who consume large amounts of fluoride products.
Can You Use Mouthwash After Brushing?
Mouthwash is a dental hygiene product that’s commonly used to freshen your breath and wash away harmful bacteria. Some formulas can even be used to strength the enamel and prevent cavities. However, even if your mouthwash contains fluoride, you should avoid rinsing with it immediately after brushing your teeth. It can wash away the concentrated fluoride in the toothpaste that’s left on your teeth. If you want to play it safe, you should wait about 20 minutes after brushing your teeth to use an oral rinse.
In a nutshell, skipping a rinse after brushing is better for your oral health because the fluoride coating on your teeth helps protect against cavities. Of course, you can always ask your dentist for their opinion on whether that step will make a significant difference for your smile.
About the Practice
At Southeastern Dental Care, we strive to make every patient feel like a member of our very own family. Our skilled and friendly team is passionate about providing exceptional dental care unlike anywhere else. If you have any questions about proper oral hygiene, we’re more than happy to answer them for you. Visit our website or call (508) 947-5717 to speak to a member of our team!