“Should you rinse with salt water before or after brushing?”
I am a 23 year old male. I want to know I should rinse with salt water before or after brushing?
8 Answers
After.
Unless you have gum disease (periodontal disease) rinsing your mouth with salt water is unnecessary. Some people will mix a little salt with sodium bicarbonate to produce a toothpaste. Arm and Hammer makes a toothpaste using similar ingredients. If you live in a very hot climate, be sure you have enough salt intake to compensate for sweating. Dentists recommend a little salt in a glass of water for rinsing your mouth after a tooth extraction for a couple of days only. Follow the exact instructions given by your dentist.
Salt water is strictly optional with questionable benefits. I do use an antibiotic rinse on occasion. The real purpose of brushing is to disturb the sticky biofilm attached to the teeth which breeds bacteria. Brushing AND flossing will disrupt this film. However, to remove hardened deposits requires a professional hygienist making periodic visits to the dentist essential.
Salt water rinses aren't generally recommended unless you have an infection or cut in your mouth that you are trying to help heal. You may be brushing too hard if you are bleeding after brushing or if you have gingivitis.. You should have a professional cleaning, floss on a daily basis, and use a soft tooth brush. The best time to use salt water rinses would be after you brush if you find bleeding.
After brushing
Dr. Alan Bruce Steiner
Dentist | General Practice
There are better things than salt water. It is good after surgery though. If you want to use it, do it after brushing.
Alan B. Steiner, DMD
Alan B. Steiner, DMD
No reason to rinse with salt water anytime unless it makes you feel better about your mouth.
Not really
