Interdental brushes (IDBs) are small tools designed for cleaning spaces between teeth that traditional toothbrushes cannot effectively reach. Dental professionals recommend IDBs because they significantly aid in the removal of plaque and debris. They can access up to 40% more of the tooth surface than a toothbrush alone. Many people wonder about the correct way to use them, particularly whether toothpaste should be applied. Understanding the proper protocol is important for maximizing their benefit and avoiding potential harm.
The Functional Difference Between Toothpaste and Interdental Brushes
The primary function of an interdental brush is the mechanical removal of plaque through the physical action of the bristles sweeping the surfaces between the teeth. Regular toothpaste is formulated with abrasive particles meant to polish enamel and scrub away stains and plaque during standard brushing. This abrasive quality is why toothpaste is generally not recommended for use with an interdental brush.
When abrasive ingredients are concentrated on the thin wire and bristles, they can cause excessive wear, especially on the softer root surfaces often exposed in the interdental space. Combining interdental brushes with abrasive toothpaste can lead to measurable dentin abrasion, the softer material beneath the enamel. This potential for damage is heightened because the cleaning action is focused in a confined area, intensifying the abrasive effect.
Choosing the Right Size and Mastering the Technique
Choosing the correct size of interdental brush is the most important step, as an improperly sized brush can be ineffective or cause trauma to the gums. The brush should fit snugly between the teeth, making contact with the tooth surfaces without requiring force. It is common to need more than one size of brush to clean all the different spaces throughout the mouth, as the gaps are not uniform.
To use the brush, insert it gently into the space between the teeth, close to the gumline. The motion should be a simple, straight in-and-out movement, repeating this action a few times to dislodge plaque and debris. Avoid twisting the brush or forcing it into a space; if it does not insert easily, a smaller size is necessary. The brush should be replaced when the filaments become worn or bent, which indicates they are no longer cleaning effectively.
Recommended Products to Use With Interdental Brushes
Since the primary goal is mechanical cleaning, the safest product to use with an interdental brush is plain water. Water acts as a lubricant and helps to rinse away the debris that the brush dislodges. This simple approach ensures plaque is removed without exposing the sensitive interdental area to unnecessary abrasives.
For those seeking an added therapeutic benefit, non-abrasive gels or specialized solutions can be considered. Some manufacturers offer fluoride gels specifically designed for interproximal application, which deliver the beneficial mineral without the abrasive particles found in standard toothpaste. Alternatively, dipping the brush into a non-foaming, antibacterial mouthwash delivers the active ingredients directly into the space being cleaned. Using these non-abrasive alternatives supports the chemical defense of the teeth while allowing the interdental brush to achieve its main purpose of physical plaque removal.