Why is it recommended to floss before brushing?

Flossing before brushing is recommended primarily because it allows fluoride, found in toothpaste, to effectively reach the proximal surfaces of the teeth, which are often missed by a toothbrush. These areas between the teeth are more prone to plaque accumulation and cavities due to being less accessible. When you floss first, you remove food particles and plaque buildup from these tight spaces, which allows the fluoride in the toothpaste to penetrate better and strengthen those surfaces. This practice maximizes the benefits of fluoride, helping to reduce the risk of cavities and promote overall dental health.

The other options may have some merit but do not directly address the primary reason for this recommendation. For example, while stimulating saliva production can be beneficial for oral health, it is not a result of the order of flossing and brushing. Similarly, teeth may appear cleaner after flossing, but the key goal is the effective delivery of fluoride to the areas most at risk for decay. Reducing the risk of cavities is indeed crucial, but the most effective method to achieve this through the order of dental hygiene practices is by ensuring fluoride access to proximal surfaces after flossing.