Through daily practice, we have noticed that many patients are unaware of the importance of using interdental brushes. This type of brush, also known as an interproximal brush, cleans the spaces between two adjacent teeth. A regular toothbrush cannot reach these areas. For this reason, the incidence of cavities in these spaces is high. Additionally, interdental brushes are used for maintaining the hygiene of bridges and crowns and cleaning teeth with fixed orthodontic appliances.
Your dentist will help you choose the right brush size depending on the arrangement of your teeth. Some people have tightly spaced teeth, requiring smaller-sized brushes. On the other hand, some people have gaps between their teeth. In these cases, a larger interdental brush is needed. It will take some time to get used to using the brush, but once you master this skill, you won’t be able to imagine brushing your teeth without cleaning the interdental spaces.
How to Use an Interdental Brush?
After brushing your teeth with a regular toothbrush, while there is still a bit of toothpaste in your mouth, pass the interdental brush through each pair of adjacent teeth at a right angle. Doing this once a day, preferably before bed, is sufficient. It takes time to learn the easiest way to maneuver the brush between your teeth. You may experience some gum bleeding, but don’t let that discourage you from continuing to use these brushes. Gums bleed when food and bacteria accumulate between the teeth, causing gum inflammation. Once you use interdental brushes regularly, this inflammation and bleeding will disappear.
What to Do If the Interdental Brush Can’t Fit Between Your Teeth?
If you have very tight contacts (tightly spaced teeth), you may not be able to pass the brush through all areas. In such cases, dental floss should be used. For other teeth where there is enough space, an interdental brush will provide better hygiene. Ask your dentist to demonstrate the correct use of an interdental brush, and you will easily adopt this new habit of brushing your teeth.
