Is it better to floss before or after you brush your teeth?

Before: I prefer before because, if you floss before, you loosen food particles from between the teeth that are eliminated by brushing and rinsing. But please know, most people do not floss accurately enough for good effectiveness, so also consider the use of an oral irrigator (such as a waterpik) and interdental stimulator (such as rotapoints or stimudents).

Flossing: I prefer for my patients to floss before they brush. This loosens the food and plaque so brushing can flush them away. That being said, flossing anytime is better than not flossing at all. Check with your dentist to make sure you are flossing correctly.