Brush and Rinse vs. Brush and Leave: What's the Best Oral Health Strategy?

Recent social media posts going viral on what to do after brushing are catching public attention about whether to rinse or leave it as such!  

Let's learn about the composition of toothpaste in general: ⁽¹⁾

1. Abrasives (20–50%) - Help remove plaque and surface stains. Examples: Calcium carbonate, hydrated silica, dicalcium phosphate, and alumina

2. Fluoride (0.1–0.3%) - Strengthens enamel and prevents cavities. Examples: Sodium fluoride, stannous fluoride, and sodium monofluorophosphate

3. Detergents (1–2%) - Create foam to help distribute toothpaste. Example: Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)

4. Humectants (20–40%) - Prevent drying out and maintain consistency. Examples: Glycerin, sorbitol, and propylene glycol 

5. Binders (1–2%) - Prevent separation of ingredients. Examples: Xanthan gum, carrageenan, and cellulose gum

6. Flavors & Sweeteners (1–2%) - Improve taste. Examples: Mint oils (peppermint, spearmint), saccharin, and xylitol

7. Preservatives (0.05–0.5%) - Prevent bacterial growth. Examples: Sodium benzoate, and methylparaben

8. Antibacterial Agents (optional) - Help prevent gum disease. Examples: Triclosan (less common now), and zinc citrate

9. Whitening Agents (optional) - Remove stains and lighten enamel. Examples: Hydrogen peroxide, and baking soda

The main point to be noticed in the essence of those videos is the presence of fluorides in toothpastes and their positive impacts. 

As it is well said, too much of anything is good for nothing!

This proverb also applies for fluoride usage too.

The abrasives present in toothpaste aid in plaque removal and stain removal. It also helps in furthering the effect of fluoride in toothpaste. But it should also be at a limit because it can cause excess wear on the tooth, leading to enamel loss.  

WHO recommends a safe limit for fluoride consumption in drinking water, which should not be exacerbated by toothpaste or any other supplement to prevent fluorosis.

Whether to rinse or not is the major question now.

MedBound Times interviewed some experts from the Dental field to bring some clarity regarding this:

The popular practice of brushing your teeth for about 2 minutes should be added by waiting for some more minutes before rinsing the toothpaste. But a person already having fluorosis should avoid using fluoride toothpaste and can even skip rinsing for some time.

Let's see some healthy tips for a healthy oral cavity:  

1. Brush Twice a Day.  

2. Flossing Daily – Removes plaque.

3. Using Mouthwash – Helps reduce bacteria and makes you feel fresh.

4. Clean Your Tongue – To remove bacteria.

5. Limiting Sugary and Acidic Foods – Reduces the risk of cavities and enamel erosion.

6. Staying Hydrated – Helps wash away food particles.  

7. Eat a Balanced Diet – Including calcium-rich foods.  

8. Avoiding Tobacco and Alcohol – To reduce the risk of oral cancer.

9. Visit the Dentist Regularly – Get checkups and cleanings every 6 months.

10. Replace Your Toothbrush – Change it every 3–4 months.  

References:

1. Vranić, Edina, Amela Lačević, Aida Mehmedagić, and Alija Uzunović. 2004. “Formulation Ingredients for Toothpastes and Mouthwashes.” Bosnian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences 4 (4): 51–58. https://doi.org/10.17305/bjbms.2004.3362. -6/3/2025

By Dr. Jude Bencia G

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