Why should we use interdental brushes?

A regular-sized toothbrush simply cannot do the job of cleaning your teeth by themselves. It may not reach certain areas between the teeth. On average, only 44% of plaque is removed by brushing. There are areas in your mouth like the gap between your teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach. While brushing twice a day is a must, if you want to remove stubborn plaque, you’re going to need some extra help from an interdental brush.

This is where an Interdental brush comes into play. These are small toothbrushes with circular heads which are specifically meant for cleaning gaps between the teeth and come in different widths to suit the sizes of the gaps. These interproximal brushes are inserted between your teeth for cleaning the areas where your regular toothbrush can’t reach.

Interdental toothbrushes come in a range of various sizes, from as thin as 0.4mm to as thick as 1.5mm. Depending on the size of the gap between your teeth, one of the above sizes should be able to fit between your teeth comfortably, where you shouldn’t have to use much force. You may find you need a couple of different sizes but the best way to find out is to ask your dentist or hygienist the next time you visit them.  

How to use an interdental brush?

1. Pick the right size of the interproximal brush as per the gap between your teeth.
2. Hold the interdental toothbrush between your thumb and forefinger.
3. Gently place the brush through the gap between your teeth- don’t force the brush through the gap.
4. Brush in and out of each space between your teeth.
5. Once finish cleaning your teeth, rinse your interdental brush.

Using Interdental brushes is an excellent way to avoid plaque and gum diseases.

“Having great oral health doesn’t come down to any one thing. Why use an interdental brush? As It is important to understand how the different choices you make each day can have an impact on the health of your teeth and gums.”