Interdental brushes are a new way to ensure that your gums stay healthy and free of infection. Since flossing is an integral part of your oral health, it’s normal to wonder what option is best. Here we’ll look at both options and which one is best for your unique needs.
What are interdental brushes?
Interdental brushes are small, plastic devices that will help eliminate food particles and plaque from the small gaps between teeth. They consist of a handle and a small spoolie that can fit between the teeth. Interdental brushes are also reusable when properly cleaned and stored.
What’s the purpose of interdental brushes?
The main goals of interdental brushes are:
- Cleaning food particles and plaque from between the spaces in teeth
- Helping people with limited mobility or who dislike flossing to have better oral care habits
Interdental brushes can also be handy for teeth that are too close together and won’t allow floss to fit through. They allow you to clean all gaps without restricting your freedom of movement. In this way, they can reach more spaces between teeth than flossing alone.
How do I use interdental brushes?
When using an interdental brush, apply a small amount of toothpaste to the tip and clean between each of your teeth using a back-and-forth motion. Be careful to to use too much pressure or scrub too hard since this can damage your gums.
What are flossing picks?
Flossing picks are similar to regular dental floss. However, they differ because they have solid plastic handle, making it is easier to reach tight spaces between your teeth and the back of your mouth. Flossing picks exist in a wide range of designs, and they may fit better in your mouth than traditional flossing with your fingers.
What does a flossing pick do?
The purpose of flossing picks is the same as regular floss or a interdental brush – it removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth. However, flossing picks make it easier if you have limited mobility or prefer to avoid traditional floss.
What’s the best way to floss with a flossing pick?
You should floss at least once per day, although it can be extra beneficial to floss after each meal. Flossing picks make it easy to floss more frequently and certain types can even be reused as long as they’re properly cleaned and stored. When using a flossing pick, make sure to gently slide the floss between each tooth and wiggle it back and forth. If using a reusable pick make sure to rinse it to remove all food particles and residue. Additionally, make sure to replace the head regularly.
Schedule an Appointment
To learn more about your options for flossing, contact IKON Dental Group at our Berlin, CT office to schedule an appointment with our team.
Dr. Izaz Khan
DentistatIkon Dental Group
Dr. Khan graduated from the University of Connecticut with a Bachelor's Degree in Physiology and Neurobiology, attained a Master's Degree in Biomolecular Sciences from Central Connecticut State University, attended the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, and completed his Residency at the Samuel Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany, NY where he was trained in comprehensive dental care.
