When we think about oral hygiene, brushing our teeth twice a day is often the first thing that comes to mind. While brushing is essential, it is only one step. To protect your teeth and gums, you need to clean between your teeth — and that’s where interdental cleaning comes in.
What Is Interdental Cleaning?
Interdental cleaning refers to the process of removing plaque and food debris from the spaces between your teeth, areas that your toothbrush simply cannot reach. This can be done using:
- Dental floss/ tape
- Interdental brushes
Each of these tools serves the same purpose: to keep the spaces between your teeth clean and healthy.
Why Is It So Important?
- Prevents Gum Disease
Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) often starts in the areas your toothbrush misses — the spaces between teeth. Bacteria that linger here can irritate your gums, leading to inflammation, bleeding, and eventually gum problems. Interdental cleaning removes the plaque before it can do damage.
- Reduces the Risk of Cavities
Cavities do not just form on the biting surfaces of teeth — they can also develop between teeth. When food particles and plaque sit between teeth for too long, acids begin to wear away the enamel, causing decay. Daily interdental cleaning can help prevent this.
- Improves Overall Oral Health
When you keep your mouth free of bacteria and build up, you reduce the overall risk of oral infections. Good oral health has even been linked to better general health, including reduced risks for heart disease, diabetes complications, and more.
- Boosts the Effectiveness of Your Routine
Brushing alone only cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces. By incorporating interdental cleaning, you cover the remaining 40%, making your oral hygiene routine far more effective.
Tips for Effective Interdental Cleaning
- Be consistent: Make it a daily habit, just like brushing.
- Choose the right tool: If you have tight spaces, floss might work best. For larger gaps, try interdental brushes- our hygienist will be able to tell you the correct size.
- Use proper technique: Avoid snapping floss into your gums. Move it gently back and forth in a C-shape.
- Ask your dentist or hygienist: They can recommend the best products and techniques based on your unique needs.
Interdental cleaning is not optional — it is a crucial part of your dental hygiene routine. By taking a few extra minutes each day to clean between your teeth, you are investing in a healthier mouth.