For the front of the mouth, insert brush into the space between the teeth at gum level by turning slightly. This technique aids access and reduces stress on the wire. You might be wondering whether an interdental brush can replace string floss – especially if you find traditional floss quite difficult to use. Well, the good news is that various studies have shown that using interdental brushes is an effective alternative to flossing. Interproximal brushing can even be more effective at removing plaque than regular flossing, according to this research. Choose a long-handled interdental brush with an angled head, like the TePe Angle Interdental Brush.

If any pain or bleeding continues for more than a week or two, speak to your dentist. You might need a professional teeth cleaning to remove tartar buildup. Or, it may be that you need to try a smaller size or angle the brush differently. Our instructions a little further down will help you avoid damaging your gums by using the wrong technique. What's the difference between an interdental and interspace toothbrush?Prices are slightly higher than most plastic brushes, as is often the case with environmentally-friendly alternatives, but they are not prohibitively expensive.

Do your gums hurt after using interdental brushes? It's normal for your gums to bleed a little when you first start using them. This is a sign of early gum disease (gingivitis), but your new cleaning habits will help improve your gum health. Keep up your brushing for a few days, and the bleeding should subside. Interdental brushes are small brushes specifically designed to clean between your teeth. Interdental brushes can be used as an alternative to flossing. There are some studies that show that daily interdental brushing is more effective than daily flossing at removing plaque. Can you recycle interdental brushes? Gently press the brush into the space between two teeth, along the gum. Twisting the brush slightly as you insert it can make insertion easier and also extend the life of the brush. They even created a pilot program for dental offices to recycle their spent interdental brushes. I’m unaware of what the outcome was, but they are making a commendable effort to be ecofriendly. What Types of Biodegradable interdental brushes are there? Just like a normal toothbrush, you should rinse interdental brushes after each use to keep them clean. Should you use toothpaste with interdental toothbrushes?

Oral Care Tips

Read more about flossing in our guide about how to floss and the best products to use. Can interdental brushes damage gums? If your brush wire breaks or some bristles come loose while you're using it, discard it and continue with a brand new one.