Interdental Brushes: The Essential Tool for Complete Plaque Removal

While traditional flossing gets most of the attention, interdental brushes are emerging as one of the most effective tools for cleaning between teeth—especially for those with wider gaps, dental work, or dexterity challenges.

What Are Interdental Brushes?

Interdental brushes are small, cone-shaped brushes designed to clean the spaces between your teeth where regular toothbrushes can't reach. Unlike string floss, these brushes feature tiny bristles on a thin wire core that can navigate irregular spaces and clean around dental work with precision.

Available in various sizes (from 0.4mm to 1.5mm diameter), interdental brushes can be matched to your specific tooth spacing for optimal cleaning effectiveness.

The Science Behind Interdental Cleaning

Research published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology demonstrates that interdental brushes remove significantly more plaque than string floss in certain situations:

• 40% more effective at reducing gingival bleeding in patients with wider interdental spaces
• Superior cleaning around bridges, implants, and orthodontic appliances
• Better compliance due to ease of use compared to traditional floss
• Reduced inflammation in periodontal pockets when used correctly

The American Dental Association recognizes interdental brushes as an effective alternative to flossing, particularly for individuals with periodontal disease or dental restorations.

Benefits of Interdental Brushes

Comprehensive Plaque Removal: The bristles physically scrub tooth surfaces and massage gums, removing biofilm that causes cavities and gum disease.

Ideal for Dental Work: Perfect for cleaning around braces, bridges, implants, and crowns where string floss struggles to reach. Our interdental replacement heads are specifically designed for orthodontic patients.

Easier for Limited Dexterity: The handle design makes interdental brushes easier to maneuver than string floss, especially for those with arthritis or motor skill challenges.

Reusable and Eco-Friendly: Unlike single-use floss, quality interdental brushes can be rinsed and reused multiple times before replacement.

Gum Stimulation: The gentle brushing action promotes healthy blood flow to gum tissue, supporting periodontal health.

How to Choose the Right Size

Selecting the correct interdental brush size is crucial for effectiveness and comfort:

Size 0 (0.4-0.6mm): Tight spaces, front teeth, minimal gaps

Size 1 (0.7-0.8mm): Small to medium gaps, most common starting size

Size 2 (0.9-1.0mm): Medium gaps, back molars

Size 3 (1.1-1.2mm): Larger gaps, periodontal patients

Size 4+ (1.3mm+): Wide spaces, significant gum recession

Pro Tip: You may need different sizes for different areas of your mouth. Start with the smallest size that fits comfortably without forcing.

Proper Interdental Brush Technique

Follow these steps for optimal cleaning:

1. Select the right size: The brush should fit snugly but slide through without force
2. Insert gently: Angle the brush to match the natural contour of the space
3. Move back and forth: Use 2-3 gentle in-and-out motions per space
4. Don't force it: If the brush doesn't fit, try a smaller size
5. Clean all spaces: Work systematically around your entire mouth
6. Rinse the brush: Clean bristles under running water after each use
7. Inspect regularly: Replace when bristles become worn or bent

Timing: Use interdental brushes once daily, preferably before bedtime after brushing. This allows maximum contact time for fluoride or hydroxyapatite from your toothpaste.

Interdental Brushes vs. String Floss vs. Water Flossers

Each tool has unique advantages:

Interdental Brushes: Best for wider spaces, dental work, and those who struggle with string floss. Superior plaque removal in accessible areas.

String Floss: Ideal for tight contacts between teeth, especially front teeth with minimal spacing. Essential for very narrow interdental spaces.

Water Flossers: Excellent for orthodontic patients, implant care, and those with sensitive gums. Our portable water flosser offers 4 cleaning modes and is perfect for comprehensive interdental cleaning.

The Ideal Approach: Many dental professionals recommend combining methods—interdental brushes for accessible spaces, string floss for tight contacts, and water flossers for final rinsing and hard-to-reach areas.

Special Applications

For Orthodontic Patients: Interdental brushes are essential for cleaning around brackets and wires. Use our orthodontic brush heads in combination with interdental brushes for comprehensive care.

For Implant Patients: Gentle interdental brushing around implant abutments prevents peri-implantitis. Use soft-bristle versions to avoid scratching titanium surfaces.

For Periodontal Disease: Regular interdental brushing can reduce pocket depth and inflammation. Your periodontist may recommend specific sizes for therapeutic cleaning.

For Bridge and Crown Wearers: Clean under pontics and around margins where bacteria accumulate. Angled interdental brushes work best for these applications.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong size: Too large causes tissue damage; too small is ineffective
• Forcing the brush: Never push hard—this damages gums and bends bristles
• Skipping tight spaces: Use string floss where interdental brushes don't fit
• Using worn brushes: Replace when bristles lose shape (typically every 1-2 weeks)
• Rushing the process: Take time to clean each space thoroughly
• Neglecting to rinse: Always rinse mouth after use to remove dislodged debris

Maintenance and Replacement

Proper care extends brush life and maintains hygiene:

• Rinse thoroughly under running water after each use
• Store in a clean, dry location with bristles exposed to air
• Replace when bristles become bent, frayed, or discolored
• Typical lifespan: 1-2 weeks with daily use
• Never share interdental brushes between individuals

Building the Habit

Integrate interdental brushing into your routine:

• Keep brushes visible next to your toothbrush
• Start with just front teeth and gradually expand
• Use a mirror to ensure proper technique
• Track your progress—note reduced bleeding and fresher breath
• Set a daily reminder until it becomes automatic

Pair interdental brushing with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste for enhanced enamel protection and our dual-headed denture brushes for comprehensive oral care.

Clinical Evidence and Professional Recommendations

Multiple systematic reviews confirm interdental brushes' effectiveness:

• Cochrane Review (2019): Interdental brushes reduce gingivitis more effectively than floss in patients with sufficient space
• European Federation of Periodontology: Recommends interdental brushes as first choice for interdental cleaning when space permits
• American Academy of Periodontology: Endorses interdental brushes for periodontal maintenance patients

The Bottom Line

Interdental brushes represent a scientifically validated, user-friendly approach to interdental cleaning. For many people—especially those with dental work, wider tooth spacing, or dexterity challenges—they offer superior plaque removal compared to traditional floss.

The key is selecting the right size, using proper technique, and maintaining consistency. When combined with regular brushing and professional dental care, interdental brushes become a powerful tool in your oral health arsenal.

Consult your dental hygienist to determine the ideal interdental brush sizes for your unique oral anatomy and start experiencing the benefits of truly comprehensive interdental cleaning.