Interdental cleaning devices for better oral hygiene

Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping your mouth clean and free of disease and other problems by regular brushing and cleaning between the teeth. Brushing alone will not remove the plaque present in the interdental spaces (space between two adjacent teeth). These spaces can trap food particles and plaque, which if not removed, can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath. Many tools are available for interdental cleaning. Interdental cleaning aids are tools designed to clean the spaces where a regular toothbrush might not reach.

Types of interdental cleaning devices

1. Dental Floss: Thin strands of string that can be used to clean between teeth. Available in various forms like waxed, unwaxed, flavored, and tape.
2. Interdental Brushes: Small brushes with bristles designed to fit between teeth. They come in different sizes to accommodate various spaces.
3. Water Flossers: Devices that use a stream of water to remove plaque and debris between teeth and below the gum line.
4. Wooden Plaque Removers: Thin, pointed wooden sticks designed for cleaning between teeth.
5. Rubber Picks: Similar to dental picks but made from soft, flexible rubber, making them gentle on gums.
6. Floss Holders: Devices that hold floss for easier use, especially for those with limited dexterity.

Dental floss

Flossing technique

1. Start with about 18 inches of dental floss. Wind most of it around one of your middle fingers, leaving about 1-2 inches to work with.
2. Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers, and gently insert it between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion. Be careful not to snap or force the floss into your gums.
3. Curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.
4. Move the floss up and down against the side of the tooth, making sure to clean below the gum line.
5. Use a clean section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth. Unwind the floss from one finger and wind it onto the other finger to ensure you’re using a fresh segment.
6. Don’t forget the back side of your last tooth. When done, rinse vigorously with water to remove any loosened plaque or food particles.

This technique helps to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gum line, where your toothbrush may not reach effectively. Flossing is facilitated by using a floss holder. They are helpful for patients with limited manual dexterity. Powered flossing devices can be easier for some patients to use than handheld floss. These devices have a single bristle that moves in a circular motion. These devices have been shown to be safe and effective, but not better in removal of plaque than finger flossing. 

Water flosser

Water Flossing technique

1. Fill the reservoir with lukewarm water. Some models allow you to add mouthwash for added freshness.
2. Adjust the pressure setting to your comfort level. Start with a lower pressure setting if you are new to using a water flosser.
3. Lean over the sink and place the tip of the water flosser in your mouth.
4. Close your lips enough to prevent splashing but leave enough space for water to flow out. 
5. Aim the tip at the gum line between your teeth, starting with the back teeth and working your way forward. Hold the tip at a 90-degree angle to your gums. Allow the water to flow along the gum line and between your teeth. Pause briefly between teeth to let the water flow out and remove debris.
6. After flossing, you can use the water flosser to clean your tongue and rinse your mouth thoroughly.
7. Empty any remaining water from the reservoir and clean the flosser according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Water flossers can be particularly beneficial for people with braces, implants, or crowns, as they can reach areas that traditional floss may struggle to access. However, they should not replace regular brushing and flossing but rather complement them as part of a thorough oral hygiene routine.

Interdental toothbrush

They come in various sizes to fit different gaps between teeth and are particularly useful for people with orthodontic appliances, dental implants, or those who have wider gaps between their teeth. Regular use of interdental brushes can contribute to better oral hygiene and help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

Interdental tooth picks

Here are some popular options for interdental tooth picks:

Plastic/Rubber Picks:

• Flexible and gentle on gums
• Can come with a textured surface for better cleaning
• Often reusable

Wooden Picks:

• Biodegradable and environmentally friendly
• Slightly more rigid, which some people prefer
• Generally single-use
• Easy to clean and maintain

When choosing an interdental pick, consider factors such as the size of the gaps between your teeth, your gum sensitivity, and personal preferences for materials and reusability.

Summary

Interdental cleaning aids play a vital role in maintaining oral health by effectively cleaning the spaces between teeth. Choosing the right tool depends on individual needs, such as the size of gaps between teeth, gum sensitivity, and personal preferences. Regular use of these aids, alongside brushing and regular dental check-ups, helps ensure healthier teeth and gums. Always consult with a dentist to determine the most suitable interdental cleaning aid for your specific needs.

FAQs

1. Why is interdental cleaning important?

Toothbrush cannot reach the spaces between teeth where plaque can accumulate and causes cavities and gum diseases. Interdental cleaning helps to remove plaque from inaccessible areas and reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.

2.How often should you should perform interdental cleaning?

You should perform interdental cleaning at least once a day. The best time to do this is usually before bedtime, but any time of day can be effective as long as it becomes a regular part of your daily oral hygiene routine.

3. Is an interdental brush better than floss?

Whether an interdental brush is better than floss depends on individual needs and preferences. People with braces, bridges, or larger gaps between teeth might find interdental brushes more effective. People with gum disease might benefit from the gentler cleaning action of an interdental floss. People with tightly spaced teeth might prefer floss.

4. What are the disadvantages of interdental brushes?

Interdental brushes may not fit into very tight spaces between teeth and they are more expensive than dental floss. The bristles of interdental brushes can wear out quickly and may need frequent replacement, which can add to the overall cost. Some may find more complicated to use initially, especially if they are accustomed to dental floss.

5. Can interdental brushes cause gaps?

Interdental brushes do not causes gaps between teeth when used properly. It actually removes the debris and plaque accumulated in interdental space. The key to use interdental brush safely is to select the correct size for your space and do not force it between your teeth. Move it in and out gently without using excessive force.

6. Can I reuse interdental brushes?

Yes, you can reuse interdental brushes but you have to rinse after each use and dry properly. Depending on the brand and quality, you may need to replace the brush every few days to a couple of weeks. Once the bristles start to lose their shape or brush is bent or if the brush looks dirty, it’s time to replace it.

Do you use toothpaste with interdental?

No, toothpaste is not necessary when using an interdental brush. They are designed to mechanically remove plaque and debris from between teeth and they are effective on their own without toothpaste. 

8.  Do interdental brushes go between teeth?

Yes, interdental brushes are specifically designed to go between teeth and clean the spaces that a regular toothbrush cannot reach. Select a brush that fits snugly into the gaps between your teeth without forcing it.

9. What age should you use interdental brushes?

Interdental brushing can be started around the age of 10 years if they have gaps between the teeth or if they have braces or other dental appliances. Ensure proper technique and supervision to prevent misuse in children. Adults should incorporate interdental brushes into their daily oral routine, especially if they have wider gaps between their teeth, or implants.

10. What are the two types of floss?

Two types are waxed floss and unwaxed floss.  Waxed floss is coated with thin layer of wax makes it more slippery and easier to slider between teeth. Unwaxed floss is not coated with wax and has a slightly rougher texture. Both types are effective at cleaning between teeth.

11. What is the alternative to interdental brush?

Water flossers are devices that are use a stream of pulsating water to clean between teeth and along the gum line. They are effective for people with braces, implants or other dental appliances.

12. Is it normal to bleed when using interdental brushes?

It can be normal to experience slight bleeding when using interdental brushes, especially if you are new to using them or if you have gum inflammation. If you’re not accustomed to using interdental brushes, your gums might be sensitive initially. This should improve with regular use as your gums become accustomed to the brushing. If bleeding continues beyond the initial few uses, it may indicate underlying gum disease or other dental issues. Persistent bleeding should be evaluated by a dentist.

13. Do I floss or brush first?   

According to American dental association, the order in which you brush and floss your teeth is a matter of personal preference and is less important than ensuring both are done effectively, but both methods are important for comprehensive oral hygiene