Interdental Cleaning Devices

Beyond Traditional Flossing

While traditional dental floss is effective for many people, interdental cleaning devices offer alternative methods for cleaning between teeth. These devices can be particularly helpful for people who find traditional flossing difficult or have specific dental conditions.

Interdental cleaning devices help remove plaque and food particles from between teeth, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. They can be used as an alternative to floss or as a supplement to your regular oral hygiene routine.

Types of Interdental Cleaning Devices

Interdental Brushes

Interdental brushes are small, cone-shaped brushes designed to clean between teeth. They come in various sizes to fit different spaces between teeth. These brushes are particularly effective for people with larger gaps between teeth or those with braces.

• Available in different sizes (0.4mm to 1.5mm diameter)
• Can be used with or without toothpaste
• Effective for cleaning around dental work
• Reusable and long-lasting

Floss Picks

Floss picks are small plastic tools with a piece of floss stretched between two prongs. They provide an easy way to floss without having to wrap floss around your fingers, making them convenient for on-the-go use.

• Easy to handle and use
• Convenient for travel
• Good for people with limited dexterity
• Disposable after use

Water Flossers

Water flossers use a stream of pressurized water to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gumline. They are particularly effective for people with braces, implants, or other dental work.

• Gentle on gums
• Effective for cleaning around dental work
• Can reach areas that floss cannot
• Adjustable pressure settings

Dental Tape

Dental tape is wider and flatter than traditional floss, making it gentler on gums and easier to use for people with sensitive gums or larger spaces between teeth.

How to Choose the Right Device

Consider Your Dental Condition

• Large gaps between teeth: Interdental brushes
• Braces or dental work: Water flosser or interdental brushes
• Sensitive gums: Dental tape or water flosser
• Limited dexterity: Floss picks or water flosser
• Tight spaces: Traditional floss or dental tape

Consult Your Dentist

Your dentist can recommend the best interdental cleaning device for your specific needs. They can also demonstrate proper technique and help you choose the right size or type of device.

Proper Usage Techniques

Interdental Brushes

• Choose the correct size for your spaces
• Insert gently between teeth
• Move back and forth several times
• Rinse the brush after each space
• Replace when bristles become worn

Water Flossers

• Start with low pressure and increase as needed
• Hold the tip at a 90-degree angle to your gums
• Move slowly along the gumline
• Pause briefly between teeth
• Use for 1-2 minutes total

Floss Picks

• Use a fresh pick for each space
• Gently guide between teeth
• Curve around each tooth
• Move up and down to clean surfaces

Benefits of Interdental Cleaning Devices

• Remove plaque from areas brushing cannot reach
• Reduce risk of cavities and gum disease
• Improve breath freshness
• Help maintain dental work
• Provide alternatives for people who cannot use traditional floss
• Can be more comfortable for sensitive gums