Interdental aids are specialized tools designed to clean the spaces between teeth and below the gumline, areas that traditional toothbrushes often cannot reach effectively. These instruments complement regular brushing by targeting plaque and food debris that accumulate in these confined spaces. Incorporating interdental aids into daily oral hygiene routines helps maintain overall oral health.
Why Interdental Cleaning Matters
While brushing removes plaque from tooth surfaces, it typically misses about 35% of the tooth surface between teeth and just beneath the gumline. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, accumulates in these uncleaned areas, leading to various oral health problems. This accumulation can cause gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, which is a reversible condition.
If gingivitis is left unaddressed, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe gum disease that damages soft tissues and bone supporting the teeth. Periodontitis can lead to tooth loosening and eventual tooth loss. Plaque buildup between teeth also creates an environment for interproximal cavities, which are tooth decay lesions. Therefore, cleaning these areas is a proactive step in preventing both gum disease and tooth decay.
Types of Interdental Aids
Dental floss remains a widely used interdental cleaning tool, available in various forms. Traditional string floss can be waxed or unwaxed, with waxed floss often gliding more easily through tight contacts. Monofilament floss, made from a single strand, is less likely to shred, while multifilament floss consists of many nylon strands. Floss picks offer a convenient alternative, featuring a pre-strung piece of floss held by a small handle, simplifying reaching back teeth.
Interdental brushes are small, cone-shaped or cylindrical brushes with bristles attached to a wire. They are designed to clean larger spaces between teeth, around orthodontic braces, or under bridges. These brushes come in a range of sizes, allowing individuals to select the appropriate size that fits snugly without force into their specific interdental gaps.
Dental picks, including wooden, plastic, and rubber-tipped versions, provide another option for interdental cleaning, particularly for removing larger food particles. Wooden picks are often triangular to conform to the gumline, while plastic and rubber-tipped picks are softer and more flexible. These tools are used with a gentle motion, sweeping along tooth surfaces and just below the gumline to remove debris.
Oral irrigators, commonly known as water flossers, utilize a pulsating stream of water to remove plaque and food debris from between teeth and below the gumline. They are beneficial for individuals with braces, bridges, or other dental work where traditional flossing might be challenging. The water stream can reach areas mechanical aids might miss, providing a thorough rinse and dislodging loose particles.
Using Interdental Aids Effectively
Proper dental flossing technique involves taking about 18 inches of floss and winding most of it around the middle fingers, leaving a one-to-two-inch section to work with. Guide the floss gently between teeth, curve it into a C-shape against one tooth surface, sliding it gently below the gumline. Move the floss up and down several times, then repeat on the adjacent tooth surface before moving to the next space, always using a fresh section of floss.
When using interdental brushes, select the correct size; the brush should fit snugly between the teeth without excessive force. Insert the brush gently into the space, then move it back and forth a few times to clean the surfaces. For conical brushes, the tip is inserted first, while cylindrical brushes are inserted straight into the space.
For oral irrigators, fill the reservoir with lukewarm water, and if recommended by a dental professional, a dentist-approved mouthwash. Position the tip at a 90-degree angle to the gumline, starting with the lowest pressure setting and gradually increasing it as comfort allows. Direct the stream of water along the gumline and between each tooth, pausing briefly to flush out debris, working systematically around all teeth.
Selecting the Best Interdental Aid for You
The size of the spaces between your teeth influences the choice of interdental aid. Individuals with very tight contacts often find traditional dental floss or floss picks most effective, as these navigate narrow gaps more easily. For those with wider spaces or receding gums, interdental brushes of appropriate size can provide more thorough cleaning.
Individuals with orthodontic appliances, such as braces, or dental work like crowns, bridges, or implants, may find certain aids more suitable. Oral irrigators are recommended for braces as the water stream effectively cleans around brackets and wires. Interdental brushes are also useful for cleaning around orthodontic hardware.
Dexterity and physical limitations also play a role. People who have difficulty manipulating traditional string floss due to arthritis or other conditions might prefer floss picks, which offer a handle for easier gripping. Oral irrigators can also be a good option for those with limited manual dexterity, as they require less fine motor control.
Ultimately, the most effective interdental aid is the one an individual will use consistently as part of their daily oral hygiene routine. Personal preference and comfort are important, as adherence to the cleaning regimen is paramount for maintaining gum health and preventing tooth decay. Consulting with a dental professional can provide personalized recommendations based on specific oral health needs.