Dental Cleaning Fairhope AL
Brush or Floss… Which Comes First?
At Sweet Water Dentistry in Fairhope, AL, one of the most common questions we hear is: “Should I brush first or floss first?” The good news is—there’s no wrong answer! As long as you’re doing both thoroughly and consistently, you’re on the right track to keeping your mouth clean and your smile bright.
That said, some dental professionals suggest flossing first. Why? Because it can loosen plaque and food particles from between your teeth, making it easier for your toothbrush to sweep them away. Others prefer brushing first to remove surface debris and follow up with floss to get in between the teeth. Ultimately, what matters most is that you do both—every day.
Brushing the Right Way
The basics of brushing are essential, but technique makes a big difference. Choose a toothbrush that fits comfortably in your hand and mouth, and be sure it has soft bristles to protect your gums. Brush at least twice a day—once in the morning and again before bedtime.
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Angle the toothbrush at 45 degrees toward your gums.
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Use short, gentle back-and-forth motions.
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Don’t forget to brush all surfaces: outer, inner, and the chewing surfaces of your teeth.
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Clean the inner front teeth with an up-and-down stroke using the tip of your brush.
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And yes—don’t forget your tongue! It harbors bacteria, too.
Flossing: The Unsung Hero of Oral Health
Brushing only reaches about 60% of your tooth surfaces. That’s where flossing comes in! Dental floss gets between the teeth and under the gumline to remove food particles and plaque that a brush can’t reach.
If you find traditional string floss tricky, there are great alternatives such as:
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Interdental brushes
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Soft picks
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Floss holders or threaders
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Water flossers
Ask your dentist or hygienist at Sweet Water Dentistry which one is right for you—and how to use it correctly to avoid damaging your gums.
Want to Know If You’re Doing It Right?
Here’s a neat trick: use plaque-disclosing tablets after you brush and floss. These over-the-counter chewables temporarily stain any plaque left behind with a bright color, showing you exactly where you need to focus more attention. It’s a great way to improve your technique and ensure you’re not missing any spots.
Regular Dental Cleanings Are Still Essential
Even the best brushing and flossing routine can’t remove all tartar buildup. That’s why routine professional cleanings are so important. At Sweet Water Dentistry in Fairhope, AL, we recommend coming in every six months for a dental cleaning and check-up. These visits help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and catch any issues early—before they become bigger (and more expensive) problems.
Our friendly dental team is here to make your visit as comfortable and positive as possible. Whether you’re due for a routine cleaning or it’s been a while since your last visit, we’re happy to welcome you into our dental family.
Call us today at 251-210-2773 to schedule your dental cleaning in Fairhope, AL!
Let’s keep your smile shining—Down by the Bay!
Visit us for expert care:
Sweet Water Dentistry
📍 5915 Sweetwater Cir, Fairhope, AL 36532
🌐 sweetwatersmile.com
📞 Call or Text: (251) 210-2773
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