The Best Order for Cleaning Your Teeth and Gums, According to a Glen Iris Dentist

A common question we hear at our clinic is: what is the best sequence for cleaning teeth and gums?
The order matters more than many people realise, especially when it comes to removing harmful oral bacteria.

Bacteria in the mouth live in a well-protected layer called a biofilm. To clean your teeth effectively, the goal is to break down this biofilm first, before trying to wash bacteria away.

Step 1: Floss or Use Interdental Brushes First

The most effective way to disrupt biofilm is by starting with flossing or interdental brushes. These tools reach areas between the teeth that a toothbrush cannot.

Many people brush first and then skip flossing because their mouth already feels clean, they are short on time, or they are tired. Unfortunately, this allows bacteria between the teeth to remain undisturbed, increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

Step 2: Brush Your Teeth Thoroughly

After flossing, brushing removes loosened plaque and bacteria from the tooth surfaces. At this stage, most of the harmful biofilm has already been broken down, making brushing far more effective.

Use a fluoride toothpaste and brush for at least two minutes, paying attention to the gum line.

Step 3: Use Mouth Rinse for Added Protection

Once brushing and flossing are complete, a mouth rinse can reach remaining bacteria and help reduce their numbers further.

If you are using a mouth rinse containing chlorhexidine, it’s important to wait 30–60 minutes after brushing before rinsing. This is because sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS)—a common ingredient in toothpaste—can reduce the effectiveness of chlorhexidine.

Alternatively, you may be advised by your dentist to use an SLS-free toothpaste, which avoids this interaction.

Daily Oral Hygiene Advice in Glen Iris

Following the correct cleaning sequence every day can significantly improve your oral health and help prevent:

Gum disease
Tooth decay
Plaque and tartar build-up

If you’re unsure which tools or products are best for you, personalised advice from your Glen Iris dentist can make all the difference.

Speak to a Glen Iris Dentist Today

If you’d like to learn more about effective daily tooth cleaning and how to keep your teeth and gums healthy, please Schedule your appointment Call or book online Tooronga Family Dentistry on (03) 9822 7006.

We proudly care for the smiles of the Glen Iris, Tooronga, Malvern, Ashburton, Camberwell and Hawthorn East communities