Many people rinse their mouths and use plenty of mouthwash immediately after brushing their teeth in the hope of achieving perfect cleanliness. Clinically, this is a completely incorrect routine. The protective minerals (fluoride, calcium) in toothpaste used during brushing need to remain on the enamel surface for a certain period of time to adhere and repair demineralized areas (remineralization). Water or mouthwash taken immediately after brushing mechanically rinses away that concentrated fluoride layer remaining on the tooth surface, flushing it down the drain. The substances in the mouthwash instantly neutralize the high reparative effect of the toothpaste. The correct approach: After brushing, toothpaste should only be spit out; the mouth should not be rinsed even with water; mouthwash should be used at a completely independent time (for example, midday).
