A toothbrush mainly cleans the outside, inside and chewing surfaces of your teeth. The small spaces between them are often left untouched. With the right tool you can clean those areas too, and it takes less than two minutes a day.
Why should you clean between your teeth?
Plaque, a soft film of bacteria, easily stays behind between the teeth. If it is not removed every day, it can contribute to cavities between the teeth and to inflamed gums that bleed easily. That is why dentists and dental hygienists generally advise cleaning the spaces between your teeth once a day, in addition to brushing. The best moment is in the evening, before you brush.
Floss, interdental sticks or interdental brushes: what is the difference?
All three tools remove plaque, but they do not suit every mouth. The choice depends mainly on the size of the spaces between your teeth and on how comfortable you are with the tool.
- Floss: a thin thread that fits well in narrow, tight spaces between teeth
- Interdental sticks: small wooden or plastic triangular sticks, handy for slightly wider spaces and easy to handle
- Interdental brushes: tiny brushes in several sizes, suitable for wider spaces, under bridges or around braces
- Water flosser: a device that rinses with a jet of water; it can be a useful addition, but is not a complete replacement for everyone
How do you use floss step by step?
- 01
Take a length of thread Prepare
Use about 40 centimeters of floss and wind it around your middle fingers, leaving a few centimeters of thread to work with.
- 02
Slide gently between the teeth Gentle
Guide the thread down with a light back-and-forth motion. Do not snap it into the gums, as this can hurt and cause irritation.
- 03
Form a C shape C shape
Curve the thread around one tooth in a C shape and slide it along the tooth surface to just below the gum line.
- 04
Move up and down Clean
Clean both sides of the space and use a fresh section of thread for each gap.
How do you choose the right size of interdental brush?
A brush or stick should pass through the space with slight resistance, without forcing it. If it is too loose it will not clean enough; if it is too tight it can damage the gums. Many people need several sizes in one mouth. At your next check-up, ask your dentist or dental hygienist for advice so that you choose the right sizes.
Practical tip: the best method is the one you actually use every day. Keep your tool visibly next to your toothbrush so you do not forget it.
What if your gums bleed while cleaning?
At first, gums can bleed slightly because they are inflamed by plaque that was left behind. In that case, carry on carefully: with calm daily cleaning, gums often become healthier within a few days to two weeks. If the gums still bleed after that time, making an appointment is wise.
How do you turn it into a habit?
A new habit is easiest to keep when you link it to something you already do. For example, clean between your teeth every evening while looking in the mirror, before you pick up the toothpaste. Start slowly, with a few spots at a time if it is new to you, and build up to the whole mouth. After a few weeks it feels odd to skip it, and you will often notice that your teeth feel fresher and smoother afterwards.
When is it wise to visit the dentist?
Make an appointment if your gums keep bleeding, if floss keeps shredding or catching, if you feel pain between your teeth, or if you cannot get a brush through the space. This can point to a cavity, the edge of a filling or tartar. Your dentist or dental hygienist will look at what suits your situation best.
Frequently Asked Questions
IMPORTANT NOTE
This content is for informational purposes only; it does not substitute personal medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Your personalized treatment plan will be determined after a clinical examination by Mondzorg HS dentists.