New York, NY – Americans have long been advised to rinse out their mouths after brushing their teeth, but dental experts are now challenging this practice. Brittany Seymour, a representative for the American Dental Association and a professor at Harvard School of Dental Medicine, recommends brushing teeth with fluoride-containing toothpaste at least twice a day without rinsing afterward to maximize the effectiveness of the toothpaste.
According to Margherita Fontana, a professor at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, rinsing after brushing washes away the active ingredients in the toothpaste. Fontana suggests waiting 20 minutes after brushing to rinse or taking a small sip of water if necessary. Alternatively, using a fluoride mouthwash after brushing is also an option for those who prefer to rinse.
A study of over 2,800 teenagers in England found that those who used less water to rinse their mouths after brushing had fewer cavities and decaying teeth compared to those who rinsed thoroughly. The study also suggested that for individuals with healthier teeth, skipping the post-brushing rinse may not be as critical as for those with high-sugar diets.
For children, it is important to monitor the amount of fluoride ingested. Kids under three should use a rice grain-sized amount of toothpaste, while children ages 3 to 6 should use a pea-sized squirt. Pediatric dentist Scott Cashion advises children to spit out excess toothpaste but avoid rinsing to allow the fluoride to protect their teeth overnight.
Moreover, drinking excessive amounts of water throughout the day may not be beneficial for dental health, according to Texas-based dentist Dr. Ellie Phillips. Phillips explains that constant sipping of water dilutes saliva, which contains proteins that protect tooth enamel and prevent decay. By reducing saliva’s benefits through excessive water consumption, individuals may unknowingly compromise their dental health.