Wait, what? Should you not rinse after brushing your teeth?

Brush your teeth, spit out, and then rinse – that’s the oral hygiene drill most of us follow each morning. Fluoride is most effective when it stays on your teeth for an extended time,” says Dr Raghavendra B R, dentist at Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Bengaluru. “Or, if one feels the need to rinse their mouth immediately after brushing their teeth, then using a fluoride mouth rinse can also work,” says Dr Suman Yadav, head of the maxillofacial and dental department at Numed Hospital, Noida. Even children, who may accidentally swallow toothpaste while brushing their teeth, are advised to use fluoride-free toothpastes. Dr Bhargav agrees and adds: “Fluoride-free toothpaste does not protect the teeth from plaque and cavities as much as fluoride toothpaste does.” Meanwhile, here are a few basic oral hygiene tips for a healthy smile: - Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled brush.