Which Comes First: Brush or Floss? How to Structure Your Routine

Most people have a fairly set oral hygiene routine, but many still wonder: is there a “right” order to brush, floss, and use mouthwash? A 2018 research study suggests that flossing before brushing removes more plaque than brushing first, which can give your teeth and gums a cleaner start between professional cleanings.

To keep your smile as plaque‑free as possible between visits at Middleburg Smiles, consider this sequence: floss, then mouthwash, and finish with brushing. Patients from Middleburg, Aldie, Ashburn, Purcellville, Philomont, Upperville, The Plains, Marshall, Leesburg, and throughout Loudoun County can all benefit from a more intentional routine at home.

Step 1: Floss first

Flossing is not a step to rush through or skip. Dental floss removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth and just under the gumline—places your toothbrush cannot reach.  

Many people simply “snap” the floss in and out, but effective flossing means:

• Gently guiding the floss between the teeth
• Curving it in a C‑shape against each tooth
• Sliding it up and down along the side of the tooth and just below the gumline
• Using a fresh section of floss for each space

Taking your time helps remove more plaque and reduces the risk of gum irritation and bleeding over time.

Step 2: Rinse with mouthwash

Brushing only cleans the tooth surfaces your brush can touch, which is estimated to be about a quarter of the total area inside your mouth. The rest—your cheeks, tongue, and other soft tissues—can still harbor bacteria that easily transfer back onto teeth.

Using an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash with the ADA Seal of Acceptance after flossing helps:

• Rinse away loosened food particles and bacteria
• Freshen breath
• Support a healthier pH balance in the mouth

Because mouthwash can rinse away active ingredients in toothpaste, it is best used between flossing and brushing rather than at the very end of your routine.

Step 3: Brush last (twice a day)

While flossing and mouthwash may be part of your evening routine, brushing should happen twice a day—ideally after breakfast and before bed. Each time you brush, aim for a full two minutes. You can:

• Set a timer or play a two‑minute song
• Use an electric toothbrush with a built‑in timer
• Spend about 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth

Use a soft‑bristled brush and a fluoride toothpaste to help remove plaque and strengthen enamel against cavities. Be sure to angle the bristles gently toward the gumline and use small, circular motions rather than harsh scrubbing.

The best routine is the one you use consistently

While research supports flossing before brushing, the most important thing is that you are cleaning your teeth thoroughly every day with techniques that work for you. If this sequence fits easily into your life, give it a try and see how your mouth feels. If another order works better, that is okay too—as long as you are brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and keeping up with your regular visits at Middleburg Smiles.