The American Dental Association states that it makes no difference whether you use mouthwash before or after brushing, as both are equally effective at helping keep your teeth clean. However, some dentists recommend using mouthwash before brushing to loosen plaque and make brushing more effective. The Mayo Clinic recommends using mouthwash after brushing, which can help wash away any debris that brushing may have missed. The National Health Service (NHS) recommends avoiding mouthwash right after brushing, since this may wash away the fluoride from your toothpaste. Instead, the NHS recommends using mouthwash at a different time of day.
In summary, there is no clear consensus on whether to use mouthwash before or after brushing. It may depend on personal preference, the active ingredients in your mouthwash and toothpaste, and the recommendations of your dentist or the manufacturer of your mouthwash. It is important to follow the instructions on the product label and to wait at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking after using mouthwash.
