Interdental Brushes vs. Floss: Which Is Better for Fresh Breath?

interdental brush
Young, trendy lady with braces using an interdental brush Marion Nowak Marion Nowak 3:29 PM Feb 17 Alt text: A happy woman shows off her sparkly, white teeth.

Effective oral hygiene is essential for maintaining good oral health and keeping your breath fresh. Have you ever considered the crucial roles of interdental brushes and floss in improving oral hygiene and keeping your breath fresh? 

If not, SmileShop can help you understand the importance of these dental tools. Let’s explore the best practices for both, helping inform your choices for a healthy smile:

Why interdental brushes? 

Do you know how even the best toothbrush can't reach those tight spots between your teeth? Plaque and food get stuck there, causing bad breath, gum disease, and even cavities. 

This is where interdental brushes and floss come in—they're designed to clean those hard-to-reach areas, helping you keep your breath fresh and your mouth healthy. An interdental brush is a small brush designed to clean between your teeth. It comes in various sizes, making it easy to fit different-sized gaps.

The Benefits of an Interdental Brush

  1. More effective at removing plaque: According to the National Institutes of Health, interdental brushes remove more plaque than floss.

  2. Easier to use: No need for complicated flossing techniques; just slide the brush between your teeth.

  3. Gentler on gums: Ideal for people with sensitive gums or braces.

 

Using an Interdental Brush

  1. Choose the right size: The brush should fit comfortably between teeth.

  2. Insert gently: Move it back and forth a few times without applying too much pressure.

  3. Rinse after use: Clean the brush under running water and replace it after 7-10 days.

Choosing The Best Interdental Brush

Choosing the right interdental brush is crucial for fresh breath. Here are some tips to consider when choosing your perfect fit.

  1. Size matters: The brush should fit comfortably between your teeth without forcing them. If it’s too small, it won’t clean properly, and if it is too big, it could cause discomfort.

  2. Bristle type: Soft, flexible bristles are ideal for gentle but effective plaque removal.

  3. Handle design: A long or angled handle provides better grip and easier access to back teeth.

  4. Wire coating: A plastic-coated wire prevents irritation and is a safer option for sensitive gums or braces.

Pro tip: You may need different sizes for different teeth. Start with a variety pack to find the perfect fit!

Floss Your Teeth

Flossing has been the go-to method for decades, and its methods have improved, too. Although many people ignore flossing altogether, it is beneficial for people with tight teeth where an interdental brush may not fit. Here’s why

  1. Reaches tight spaces: Flossing is ideal for spaces between your teeth where the toothbrush cannot reach.

  2. Removes plaque: Flossing prevents cavities and gum disease.

  3. Portable and convenient: Flossing is ideal for on-the-go use.

Flossing Properly

  1. Use about 45cm of floss and wrap it around your fingers.

  2. Gently slide it between your teeth, following the curve of each tooth.

  3. Avoid snapping the floss to prevent gum irritation.

Other Methods to Consider For Oral Hygiene And Fresh Breath

  • Use a tongue cleaner: Bacteria on the tongue can cause bad breath.

  • Stay hydrated: Dry mouth leads to odour buildup.

  • Use a fluoride toothpaste: Strengthens enamel and fights bacteria

While interdental brushes are more effective for most people, flossing is still helpful for tighter spaces between teeth, so you consider  both methods for improved oral health and fresh breath

Ready to boost your confidence with fresh breath? Check out our full range of SmileShop dental products now!

 

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