How to brush your teeth properly with an interdental toothbrush

Most tooth decay and problems in the mouth occur in the interdental spaces, which is why interdental brushing is very important for healthy teeth. You can never clean the interdental spaces perfectly with a conventional toothbrush. 

A conventional toothbrush cleans only the outer and inner surfaces of the teeth. The areas between the two teeth and the interdental spaces are very difficult to access or completely inaccessible. Tooth decay, gingivitis and periodontitis are 95% caused by poorly cleaned interdental space. The use of interdental brushes is therefore essential. An interdental toothbrush should be a must-have for anyone who wants to have healthy teeth and gums. It should also be used by people with implants, bridges or braces.

Fortunately, interdental toothbrushes are now a common part of hygiene and a healthy lifestyle. But do you know how to brush your teeth with a toothbrush? If you’re just starting out with interdental brushes, you may have experienced bleeding gums while brushing. Don’t panic, it’s only a matter of a few days before your gums get used to the toothbrush. Your gums will stop bleeding and become stronger and healthier.

It is always important to choose the correct size toothbrush for the specific interdental space (e.g. different size for the front teeth, different size for the molars) and not to change the recommended toothbrush size. Too small a brush is ineffective because it does not remove all the plaque present in the area. A very large interdental toothbrush can cause injury to the gums, which usually recede over time under its pressure, exposing the sensitive neck of the tooth. The size of the interdental space must be measured. It is always best to get advice from a dental hygienist. She will try out the appropriate interdental brushes directly in your mouth and together you will also practice their insertion.

How often to brush your teeth with an interdental toothbrush
How often to use the interdental toothbrush? Just once a day, usually in the evening after brushing with a conventional toothbrush. The toothbrushes are used without toothpaste and rinsed with water after each use. A properly sized interdental toothbrush is the best and fastest tool. Flossing is recommended for spaces between the teeth where a toothbrush cannot fit, especially in front or crooked teeth. However, the floss does not sufficiently clean the spaces between the molars because the space between the teeth is not even. Flossing is quite difficult to manage without injuring your gums, which is why interdental brushes are recommended. Wondering how often to change your toothbrush? Depending on the wear of the bristles, your interdental toothbrush will usually last 2 to 3 weeks with daily use.