Need help cleaning the space in between your teeth? You’re in the right place. Our expertise in interdental care ensures your smile is not just beautiful but healthy, too. You can trust our dedicated team of professionals to guide you through effective interdental cleaning so that you can enjoy a vibrant, healthy smile for a lifetime.
What is interdental brushing?
Interdental brushing is all about cleaning the tiny gaps between your teeth, places where your regular toothbrush can’t get to. These small spaces are hotspots for plaque buildup and can lead to gum problems if not cleaned well. That’s where interdental brushes come in handy. They are tiny brushes specifically made to clean between your teeth, removing hidden plaque and bits of food.
Why is interdental brushing important?
Interdental brushing is super important because it goes beyond what regular toothbrushing can do. Even though we brush our teeth twice a day, the bristles of a regular toothbrush can’t fully reach the small spaces between our teeth. Food particles and plaque hide in these spots; if they’re not cleaned out, they can lead to gum disease and cavities.
Interdental brushing directly addresses this problem, cleaning out those tricky areas and keeping your gums healthy. By making it a part of your daily routine, you’re not just brushing better; you’re protecting your oral health, preventing future dental issues, and ensuring your smile stays bright and healthy.
Keeping Your Smile Bright: A Guide to Interdental Cleaning
Explore the essentials of interdental cleaning with our simple steps to a healthier smile, looking at brush sizes, technique, timing, and managing any initial bleeding.
- Interdental brushes sizing
- Interdental cleaning method
- When to use your interdental brushes
- Interdental brushing and bleeding
Interdental toothbrushes are available in different sizes. You may require a range of sizes for different teeth in your mouth. Never force the brush. It should fit snugly, ensuring you reach all sides of the interdental space.
When using interdental brushes, you don’t need to scrub between your teeth. Moving the brush backwards and forwards once or twice is enough.
Get into the routine of using your interdental brushes every time you clean your teeth. This will keep the space between your teeth fresh and prevent bacteria from building.
It is very common for you to experience bleeding when you first start using interdental brushes. Don’t worry; this is quite normal and caused by bacteria movement from the gums. The bleeding will stop after a few days when your gums become healthier.
Interdental brushing FAQs
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Why can’t I just use regular floss?
Regular floss is great for removing plaque between teeth, but interdental brushes can be more effective for cleaning wider gaps and around braces or dental work. They can also be easier to handle and provide a more thorough cleaning. -
How do I choose the right size interdental brush?
The size of the interdental brush depends on the size of the spaces between your teeth. It's best to start with a small size and try different ones until you find a fit that's snug but not too tight. Your dentist can also recommend the best size for you. -
How often should I use an interdental brush?
It's recommended to use an interdental brush at least once daily, ideally as part of your evening oral hygiene routine, to remove all food particles and plaque before bedtime. -
Can interdental brushing damage my gums?
If done correctly, interdental brushing should not damage your gums. Use gentle motions without forcing the brush into small spaces. If you experience bleeding, it may be a sign of gum inflammation, but this should improve with regular cleaning. If bleeding persists, reach out to our team, and we’ll be able to help. -
How do I clean my interdental brush?
Rinse your interdental brush under running water after each use. Occasionally, you can soak it in antiseptic mouthwash to keep it clean. Replace your interdental brush when the bristles become worn or bent, typically after about a week of use.
Care for your smile with Aesthetique
Ready to elevate your oral hygiene with expert interdental brushing guidance? At Aesthetique Dental Care, we help you navigate the ins and outs of effective interdental cleaning. Don’t let those hard-to-reach spots compromise your oral health. Contact our private dental clinic in Leeds today to learn more about the right tools and techniques for you. Together, let’s keep your smile bright, healthy, and plaque-free!
Visiting the practice
Aesthetique Dental Care 21 Wharf Street, The Calls Leeds West Yorkshire LS2 7EQ
We’re in the heart of Leeds - accessed by bus and train and have convenient on street parking.
Dental Design | Site last updated: December 2024 