Are you supposed to rinse after brushing?

Are you supposed to rinse after brushing your teeth?

The NHS says to brush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day for about two minutes, to spit out leftover toothpaste and not to rinse with water afterwards, because rinsing washes away the fluoride that is still working on your teeth. Cleveland Clinic's and ADA MouthHealthy's brushing pages do not give rinsing instructions, so the NHS guidance is the direct answer in the sources we read. If a lot of foam bothers you, spitting thoroughly is the recommended route.

When to use mouthwash

The NHS says fluoride mouthwash helps prevent decay but should not be used right after brushing: pick another time, such as after lunch, and avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after using it. Cleveland Clinic says antibacterial mouthwash used daily helps keep harmful oral bacteria in check and reduces plaque, and suggests an alcohol-free formula to avoid dry mouth. Our mouthwash guides cover types.

Is brushing your teeth three times a day bad?

Healthline says the American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day, that some dentists suggest brushing after each meal, and that brushing three times a day likely won't damage teeth if you brush gently. Brushing too hard can wear enamel and irritate gums, so use a light touch, and Healthline says flattened bristles are a sign you are brushing too hard. Brushing straight after acidic foods can remove weakened enamel, so Healthline suggests waiting at least an hour.

Why does my breath smell after brushing?

Healthline says to brush your tongue with a few back-to-front strokes to remove bacteria that cause bad breath, and Cleveland Clinic says the tongue holds bacteria and should be brushed whenever you brush your teeth, using a toothbrush or tongue scraper. Cleveland Clinic says chronic bad breath is a warning sign of possible oral health problems and that if it persists you should see your dentist. Cleaning between teeth daily also helps.

Should you scrape your tongue before or after brushing?

The sources we read do not specify an order, only that the tongue should be cleaned whenever you brush, with a toothbrush or a scraper. Healthline says it does not matter whether you brush or floss first as long as you do a thorough job. Use light pressure on the tongue.

Do you oil pull before or after brushing?

The sources we read do not recommend an order. Healthline's article on receding gums says a 2020 review found oil pulling may reduce plaque and gum inflammation but needs more research, so oil pulling is not a substitute for brushing, flossing and dental care. If you try it, do it as an addition, and spit the oil into a bin rather than the sink.

Does brushing make teeth whiter?

Brushing removes plaque and surface stains, so teeth can look cleaner, but it does not change the natural shade. Our guides on whitening cover what does. Brushing harder to whiten can wear enamel and irritate the gums, as Healthline warns.

How to brush well

ADA MouthHealthy says to brush twice a day with a soft-bristled brush that fits your mouth, replace it every three to four months or sooner if frayed, angle the bristles at 45 degrees to the gums with gentle, short strokes about one tooth wide, and use an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. Cleveland Clinic adds flossing once a day, since brushing does not reach between teeth. Healthline says most people brush for only about 45 seconds, against the two minutes advised.

Questions to ask your dentist

Ask for a quick brushing check at your next visit.

• Is my brushing technique right, and am I brushing too hard?
• Which toothpaste and mouthwash suit my teeth?
• When should I use fluoride mouthwash?
• Do I need to clean my tongue, and how?
• Is my breath a sign of a dental problem?

Frequently asked questions