The order in which you drink water and brush your teeth in the morning can impact the effectiveness of your oral hygiene routine. The recommended order is to brush your teeth before drinking water.
During the night, while you sleep, your mouth produces less saliva, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive. This bacterial growth can lead to the formation of plaque, which can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
When you wake up in the morning, brushing your teeth helps remove the accumulated bacteria and plaque. This helps maintain oral hygiene, freshens your breath, and protects your teeth and gums from potential issues.
If you drink water before brushing, it can wash away some of the bacteria and plaque, making the brushing process less effective. Additionally, drinking water dilutes the fluoride in toothpaste, which is an important ingredient for protecting your teeth against cavities.
By brushing your teeth first and then drinking water, you allow the toothpaste's fluoride to remain in contact with your teeth for a longer period. This enhances its protective effect and helps strengthen your tooth enamel.
To optimize your morning oral hygiene routine, follow these steps:
1. Upon waking up, rinse your mouth with water to freshen your breath.
2. Apply a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste to your toothbrush.
3. Brush your teeth thoroughly for at least two minutes, using gentle circular motions. Clean all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces.
4. Spit out the toothpaste, but avoid rinsing your mouth with water immediately after brushing to allow the fluoride to remain on your teeth.
5. After brushing, you can drink water or rinse your mouth if desired.
By following this order, you effectively remove bacteria and plaque from your teeth and maximize the benefits of toothpaste, leading to better oral health.