Cleaning Between Teeth: The Secret Behind a Truly Healthy Smile

While brushing your teeth is the best way to keep them clean, it only covers 60% of their surfaces. Interdental brushes are one of the most effective and easiest ways to enhance the health of your teeth. Elite Dental and Orthodontics is here to provide you with the best advice on this simple way to improve your oral hygiene routine.

Why Is Interdental Cleaning So Important

Plaque can build up between teeth, where regular toothbrushes can’t reach. Over time, this can lead to gum inflammation, tooth decay, and bad breath. To prevent this, include an interdental toothbrush in your regular cleaning routine.

An interdental brush is a small brush designed to clean between teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach. Using it daily, along with regular brushing, is a simple and effective way to maintain healthy gums and teeth.

To keep your mouth healthy and fresh, it’s recommended to clean between your teeth every day. If you notice your gums bleeding when you start, don’t stop, as it could be a sign of inflammation. Contact your dentist if you don’t see improvement in a couple of days.

How to Choose the Right Size

Choosing the right size of interdental brush can be challenging, but asking a dentist for advice is a good idea. Here are some tips to help you get started:

In the mirror, insert the toothbrush between the teeth close to the gumline. Begin with the smallest brush size and increase it until the bristles reach both the tooth surface and the gum tissue.
Ensure the brush fits snugly, but the wire shouldn’t touch the side of the tooth or the gums, even if it is plastic-coated. Never force the toothbrush into a gap.
After inserting the brush, move it back and forth in a circular motion about 2-3 times. Clean all spaces between teeth at least once per day.
The size of the brush and floss you need will depend on how many spaces there are between your teeth.

This post was written by a professional at Elite Dental and Orthodontics, a Family Dentistry in Westchester CA. Elite Dental’s mission is to provide exceptional dental care that brings smiles to life. Whether you’re seeking relief from tooth pain, considering a veneer smile makeover, or require a dental implant, our experienced team is here to guide you on your journey to optimal oral health in Los Angeles, CA.