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You know that your family dentist recommends both brushing and flossing to maintain healthy teeth and gums, but which one should you do first? At Boerne Orthodontics, we’re happy to help you figure out the answer to that question. As your trusted Boerne pediatric dentist, we deliver compassionate care in a family-friendly environment using state-of-the-art methods. Assisting our patients and their families in making smart oral health care choices is part of how we provide the best care in Boerne, Fair Oaks, and surrounding areas.

A Quick Review of

Brushing and Flossing

To understand the roles that brushing and flossing play in your daily care regimen, it’s a good idea to review their benefits. The American Dental Association explains that brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste aids in the prevention of:

  • Cavities
  • Receding and inflamed gums
  • Periodontal disease
  • Tooth decay

Flossing also helps achieve these goals, but it primarily focuses on inhibiting gum disease. That’s because interdental cleaning removes debris and dental plaque, a sticky bacteria-containing film that collects between the teeth. If left alone, that bacteria will irritate and infect the gums. Fortunately, you can choose from interdental cleaning tools such as flexible floss strands, pre-threaded floss, water flossers or specially designed dental picks.

What the

Experts Say

Which should come first: brushing or flossing? According to the ADA, it doesn’t really matter so long as you do a thorough job of both. You might be surprised to learn this, but it’s really up to your own personal preferences. For some, brushing first may make it easier to navigate interdental cleaners between their teeth. On the other hand, flossing first clears debris and plaque out of the mouth before brushing. Whichever sequence you choose, make sure you’re flossing at least once per day.

Your Family

Dentist in Boerne

Families in Boerne and surrounding communities turn to Boerne Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry. We’re a kids' dentist practice devoted to helping young patients achieve beautiful and healthy smiles through comprehensive pediatric dental care and orthodontic treatments such as Invisalign. To explore treatment options for your child or teen, just use our online appointment request form or get in touch with us at (830) 521-2057.