Interdental brushes are small, specialized cleaning tools designed to remove plaque and food debris from the spaces between teeth, areas a standard toothbrush cannot effectively reach. Biofilm accumulation in these interproximal spaces is often missed during routine brushing, potentially leading to gum disease and cavities. Incorporating these brushes into a daily routine contributes to a more complete removal of bacteria, maintaining oral health beyond the surfaces cleaned by a regular toothbrush.
Finding the Right Size and Style
Interdental brushes are manufactured in a wide array of sizes, with diameters typically ranging from 0.4 mm up to 1.5 mm or more for larger gaps. Selecting the correct size is necessary for effective plaque removal and preventing trauma to the gums. A proper fit should allow the brush to be inserted with slight resistance so the bristles make contact with the tooth surfaces, but forcing the brush into the space should never be required.
Using a brush that is too small will not effectively clean the entire gap, while a brush that is too large can damage the gum tissue and the wire core may bend prematurely. Since the spacing between teeth often varies throughout the mouth, most individuals require two or three different brush sizes to clean all areas properly. Consulting a dental hygienist for an initial sizing assessment is the best way to determine the ideal brush sizes. Brushes also come in various styles, including straight brushes and longer-handled angled or L-shaped designs, which often improve access to the back teeth.
Step-by-Step Interdental Brushing Technique
Before beginning, moisten the brush slightly with water or mouthwash, and hold the handle comfortably. The cleaning process should be performed once daily, ideally before regular toothbrushing, to loosen debris for easier removal. You may find it easier to perform the entire routine in front of a mirror to ensure proper placement, especially when first learning the technique.
To insert the brush, gently guide the tip into the space between two teeth, aiming for the area just below where they touch. If the brush has a straight handle, you may need to insert it at a slight angle to follow the natural contour of the gum line. If you encounter significant resistance while attempting to insert the brush, withdraw it immediately and choose a smaller size to avoid causing harm. Never attempt to force the brush into a tight space, as this can injure the gums or damage the wire core.
Once the brush is fully inserted, move it gently back and forth two to three times in a horizontal motion to scrub the surfaces of both adjacent teeth. The bristles should contact the sides of the teeth and the gum tissue at the base of the gap to remove the bacterial biofilm. For the back teeth, using an angled or L-shaped brush can simplify access, or you can gently curve the wire of a straight brush to reach molars more easily. Approaching some back spaces from both the cheek side and the tongue side may ensure thorough cleaning. After cleaning each space, rinse the brush under running water to remove the dislodged debris before moving to the next gap.
Cleaning, Maintenance, and Replacement
After completing the cleaning of all interdental spaces, the brush must be thoroughly rinsed under running water to ensure all debris is removed from the nylon filaments. It should then be flicked to remove excess water and allowed to air dry completely, rather than being stored in a closed container. Many interdental brushes come with a ventilated cap which can be used for hygienic storage or placed on the end of the handle to extend its length.
Interdental brushes are designed to be reused multiple times, unlike single-use floss picks, and their longevity depends on the number of gaps they clean and the force used. A single brush typically lasts for a few days up to a week before the bristles begin to show signs of wear. The brush should be replaced when the bristles become visibly frayed, bent, or the wire core is damaged or distorted, as a worn brush loses its cleaning effectiveness. Some initial, minor bleeding from the gums is common when first starting interdental cleaning, but if this bleeding persists after a week of consistent use, consult a dental professional.