A Nigerian content creator stirred reactions online after advising people not to rinse their mouths immediately after brushing, stressing that dentists recommend simply spitting out the toothpaste instead.
She explained that toothpaste contains fluoride, which helps protect and strengthen the teeth, and rinsing right away washes away its benefits.
According to her, brushing twice daily without rinsing instantly will also help prevent bad breath and halitosis.
Why dentists recommend not rinsing
Dental experts have long explained that fluoride in toothpaste forms a protective layer on the teeth, helping to fight cavities and maintain stronger enamel.
Rinsing with water immediately after brushing washes away the fluoride before it has time to work.
Instead, experts advise spitting out excess foam and letting the residue remain on the teeth for at least 30 minutes. This practice maximises the protective effect of fluoride and reduces the risk of tooth decay.
The advice might sound unusual to many people who are used to rinsing instantly, but health practitioners insist that small lifestyle changes like this can significantly improve oral hygiene in the long run.
Mixed reactions trail the advice
The statement quickly went viral, sparking a heated debate on X (formerly Twitter). While some users dismissed the tip as “crazy content,” others agreed, pointing out that dental experts give the same recommendation.
Josh-Defi commented: “Can Nigeria gov’t start to dey pack all this mad people creating content recently cuz wt you do mean person shouldn’t rinse his or her mouth after brushing? God abeg”
Sybaddest wrote: “Who Dey open social media for all these people self no b same person wey talk say make we no Dey use sponge again b dis”
Felix NDUDI added: “Yeah she’s right.. Toothpaste contains fluoride, which strengthens and protects your teeth. Brush and then spit, don’t rinse with water immediately until after 30 mins.”
Zelsa.sats noted: “Not like you will not rinse at all but you can take ur bath after brushing and rinse after the bath…. It helps with fresh breath try it and you will see the result. This lady’s content are always educating”
Watch the video below…
Omoh! This one dey new to me oo. Which one be say make we no rinse out mouth after brushing again na! 👀 pic.twitter.com/A8fTLBgebN
— TENIOLA (@Teeniiola) September 29, 2025
