Is rinsing after brushing damaging your teeth? Here’s what research reveals

Recent studies suggest that rinsing immediately after brushing your teeth washes away fluoride, reducing its protective benefits. Leaving fluoride on your teeth strengthens enamel and reduces tooth decay by up to 25%. To optimize your brushing habits, simply spit out excess toothpaste instead of rinsing and avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after brushing.