Flossing vs interdental brushes – which is better? (2024)

FAQs

Flossing vs interdental brushes – which is better? ›

In response, the British Society of Periodontology said: 'Evidence supports the use of small interdental brushes for cleaning between the teeth where there is space to do so, in preference to flossing… Floss is not a waste of time – it is a viable alternative to interdental brushing where appropriate.

So, if you want to use both methods, we advise using flossing when there's no visible gap between teeth; in other cases, it's better to use an interdental brush.

Disadvantages of interdental brushes

Due to their bristle structure, they can injure the gums if the wrong interdental brush is chosen or used incorrectly. It is therefore important to choose a metal-free brush and the right size of brush for your own interdental space.

Interdental brushes were an effective alternative to dental floss for reducing bleeding and plaque between four and 12 weeks. Overall, this review was well conducted and benefited from a thorough search, robust review methods and reliable analyses. The findings of this review are likely to be reliable.

While it may be surprising, a study has found that flossing first followed by brushing with a fluoride toothpaste is more effective in removing interdental plaque than brushing first, flossing second. In addition, flossing before brushing results in greater fluoride retention between teeth.

Use your interdental brush once a day, preferably in the evening and in front of the mirror. Move the brush gently back and forth a few times in each interdental space.

Too much toothbrush

An excess of brushing may erode the enamel and expose dentin with no protection, apart from damaging our gums and soft tissues. The same for dental floss or interdental brushes. We must slide gently the floss between the teeth, without damaging gums.

There is no evidence to say that interdental brushes cause gum recession. In fact, interdental brushes can actually help to prevent receding gums as they are designed to fight plaque and tartar build-up, which can contribute to gum recession.

When you first start using interdental brushes, your gums may bleed, they may also be tender as you start to remove any plaque build-up. Bleeding is a sign that the gums are not healthy, but this is completely normal if you have not cleaned in between your teeth in this way before.

Is a Waterpik better than interdental brushes? ›

Results. The Waterpik^TM water flosser was significantly more effective than the interdental brushes for reducing gingival bleeding. Notably, the water flosser was 56% more effective for reducing whole mouth bleeding, and 53% more effective for reducing whole mouth approximal bleeding.

Should I use interdental brushes before or after brushing? According to the Oral Health Foundation, we should perform interdental cleaning before brushing to maximise its effectiveness. The study found that flossing loosens bacteria and debris from between the teeth, making them easier to clean.

Interdental Brushes: Like tiny toothbrushes, specially designed to clean between your teeth, these brushes are a great alternative to flossing. Interdental brushes are usually easier to use than a thread of floss, are just as effective as floss, and are probably your best option if you have braces.

Throughout the day, food particles and plaque build up between teeth and along the gumline. Flossing at night helps remove these accumulated debris, preventing bacteria from thriving in these areas overnight. By clearing out these spaces, you reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

Takeaway. When you're looking to protect your tooth enamel, brushing right after you wake up in the morning is better than brushing your teeth after breakfast. If you have to brush your teeth after breakfast, try to wait at least 30 minutes before you brush.

Flossing first can provide better results, but overall, if you're brushing and flossing daily, you're doing a great job with your oral health, regardless of which order you choose. However, it's still important to use mouthwash last, as the product won't work as well if rinsed away during subsequent oral hygiene steps.

“Make a C-shape to hug the side of the tooth, and move floss up and down five times, going slightly below the gums. Then make the C-shape around the adjacent tooth up and down to clean the side surface of that tooth before pulling the floss out and moving to the next tooth.” Keep it simple.

Should I use interdental brushes before or after brushing? According to the Oral Health Foundation, we should perform interdental cleaning before brushing to maximise its effectiveness. The study found that flossing loosens bacteria and debris from between the teeth, making them easier to clean.

When you first start using interdental brushes, your gums may bleed, they may also be tender as you start to remove any plaque build-up. Bleeding is a sign that the gums are not healthy, but this is completely normal if you have not cleaned in between your teeth in this way before.

Regular use of interdental brushes can significantly reduce the risk of periodontal disease (gum disease), cavities, and other oral health issues.