The Best Way to a Clean Mouth (And No, We’re Not Talking About Potty Mouths)

Let’s face it, having a clean mouth isn’t just about fresh breath; it’s about keeping your teeth and gums healthy for years to come.  

Now, before we dive in, let’s clarify: this article is about cleaning your actual mouth, not about minding your language. If you’re here because you’ve been told you have a “potty mouth,” you might need a different kind of advice 😉 

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s talk about the golden rule of oral hygiene:  

Floss – Rinse – Brush – Scrape – Spit 

It’s simple, effective, and keeps your mouth feeling as fresh as a minty breeze on a crisp morning. Here’s how it works: 

  1. Floss First: The Unsung Hero of Oral Care

Flossing might not be the most glamorous part of your routine, but it’s arguably the most important. There’s quite literally no amount of brushing (or type of brush) that can do the job of the floss.  

Why Floss Your Teeth 

Flossing removes the bits of food and plaque hiding in tight spaces. Without it, you’re inviting bacteria to throw a party in your mouth, and trust me, they’re terrible guests. 

How to Do It Right: 

Take a piece of floss about 18 inches long, wrap it around your fingers, and gently slide it between your teeth. Curve it into a C-shape around each tooth and go up and down. Don’t saw at your gums like you’re trying to cut down a tree; they’re not lumber! 

And if you’re struggling with just the floss strip (like myself), you may want to consider a re-usable floss holder like this one. 

  1. Rinse with Mouthwash: Swish and Shine

After flossing, it’s time to rinse. A good mouthwash helps to wash away loose particles and leaves your mouth feeling extra fresh. 

Why Rise After Flossing? 

You probably haven’t realised that most chunks of food get removed via flossing, not brushing. And once taken out from their hiding spots, it’s important to rinse them out so they don’t get back between your teeth. 

Pro Tip: 

Pick a mouthwash that’s alcohol-free to avoid drying out your mouth. And yes, swish it around like you’re auditioning for a mouthwash commercial; it’s part of the fun. 

  1. Brush Thoroughly: The Star of the Show

This one’s a no-brainer, but brushing is your main line of defence against plaque and cavities. Even when you can’t do the whole procedure, make sure to at least brush your teeth. 

Why It Matters: 

Brushing removes food particles, plaque, and bacteria from your teeth and gums. Plus, it’s the best way to keep those pearly whites gleaming. 

How to Do It Right: 

Brush for two full minutes, at least twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle and make gentle motion from the gum towards the tip of the tooth – don’t just scrub like you’re cleaning a stubborn pan! And don’t forget to give your gumline some love. 

  1. Scrape Your Tongue: The Secret to Truly Fresh Breath

If you’ve never scraped your tongue, you’re missing out on a whole new level of cleanliness. A tongue scraper removes bacteria and debris from the surface of your tongue, where bad breath often starts. 

Why Scrape? 

Your tongue is like a sponge for bacteria, and without scraping, all that gunk just sits there. Brushing your tongue helps, but scraping is next-level and separates the true pros from the mortal humans. 

How to Do It Right: 

Use a tongue scraper or the back of your toothbrush. Start at the back of your tongue and gently pull it forward, rinsing the scraper between each pass. It’s oddly satisfying, and your mouth will thank you. Just please, please, don’t push! 

  1. Spit (But Don’t Rinse Again!): Keep the Good Stuff on Your Teeth

After brushing and scraping, spit out the toothpaste, but don’t rinse your mouth with water. 

Why: 

Rinsing washes away the fluoride from your toothpaste, which is there to protect your teeth. By skipping that final rinse, you let the fluoride do its job longer, keeping your teeth stronger and more resistant to cavities. 

Pro Tip: 

It might feel strange at first, but you’ll get used to it. If you need a bit of a rinse, use mouthwash instead of plain water. 

Bonus Tips for an Extra Clean Mouth 

  • Hydrate: A dry mouth can lead to bad breath, so drink plenty of water throughout the day. 
  • Chew Sugar-Free Gum: It helps increase saliva production, which naturally cleans your teeth and gums. 

Final Thoughts: A Clean Mouth, A Happy You 

Keeping your mouth clean doesn’t have to be a chore. With the Floss, Rinse, Brush, Scrape, Spit routine, you’re giving yourself the confidence that comes with a fresh, healthy smile. 

And remember, while this advice is all about dental hygiene, it doesn’t hurt to clean up your “potty mouth” too. After all, your words should be as clean as your teeth 😉 

Now go ahead and give this routine a try – you’ll feel fresher, look brighter, and keep those pearly whites in great shape for years to come.