“Spit, Don’t Rinse” — Nigerian Influencer Sparks Online Debate on Dental Care

A Nigerian content creator has caused a stir online after advising people not to rinse their mouths immediately after brushing.

She emphasized that dentists recommend simply spitting out toothpaste, as it contains fluoride that protects and strengthens teeth something rinsing washes away. She added that brushing twice daily without immediately rinsing can also help prevent bad breath.

Dental experts have long noted that fluoride forms a protective layer on teeth, helping to fight cavities and maintain strong enamel.

Spitting out excess foam and leaving residue on the teeth for at least 30 minutes maximizes fluoride’s benefits and reduces the risk of tooth decay. While the advice may seem unusual to those accustomed to rinsing right away, health practitioners insist that small adjustments like this can improve oral hygiene over time.

The video quickly went viral, sparking mixed reactions. Some dismissed the tip as “crazy content,” while others supported it, noting that dental professionals often give the same guidance. Josh-Defi reacted: “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 added: “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 commented: “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 said: “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 is always educating.”