The ultimate guide to interdental cleaning
When it comes to maintaining excellent oral hygiene, brushing your teeth twice a day is just the beginning. A toothbrush alone can’t reach all the areas between your teeth, where plaque and food particles often get stuck. That’s where interdental cleaning comes in, and two popular tools for this are floss picks and interdental brushes.
But which one is better? The answer depends on your dental needs, preferences, and lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll explore both options to help you make the best choice for your oral care routine.
Why Interdental Cleaning Matters
Interdental cleaning targets the small spaces between teeth and along the gumline that toothbrushes can’t access. According to the Oral Health Foundation, failing to clean between your teeth can lead to1:
- Tooth decay
- Gum inflammation
- Bad breath
That’s why they recommend cleaning between your teeth at least once a day using dental floss or an alternative method, such as floss picks or interdental brushes.
What Are Floss Picks?
Floss picks are small plastic tools with a short strand of dental floss stretched between two arms, and usually a pointed end that can be used like a toothpick. DenTek offers a range of floss picks, including options for sensitive gums and tight teeth.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Great for reaching back teeth
- Convenient for on-the-go use
Cons:
- Can be less effective in large gaps or around dental appliances
- Often single-use . Did you know Dentek offer a range of eco-friendly floss picks?
What Are Interdental Brushes?
Interdental brushes are small, cylindrical brushes designed to slide between teeth. They come in various sizes to suit different gaps, and can be particularly effective for people with gaps between their teeth2 or those wearing braces3.
Pros:
- More effective than floss at removing plaque in larger gaps2,4
- Ideal for people with braces, bridges or gum disease3,5
Cons:
- May not fit between very tight teeth
- Requires more time and technique to use properly
So, Which Should You Choose?
| Feature | Floss Picks | Interdental Brushes |
| Best for | Tight spaces
Back teeth Travel |
Wider gaps
Braces Gum disease |
| Ease of use | Very easy | Moderate (may require practice) |
| Effectiveness6 | Good | Excellent |
| Reusability | Not resuable but Dentek do offer a range of eco-friendly floss picks | Dentek offer a range of reusable interdental brushes |
Ultimately, the best interdental cleaning tool is the one you’ll use consistently. Some people even benefit from using both—floss picks for tight areas and interdental brushes for larger gaps.
Tips for Effective Interdental Cleaning
- Clean between your teeth once a day, ideally before brushing.
- Use gentle pressure—don’t force brushes or floss between teeth.
- Rinse tools after use and store them hygienically.
- Replace floss picks after each use; replace brushes when bristles become worn.
If you’re not sure which tool is best for your mouth, consult your dentist or dental hygienist for personalised advice.
References
- https://www.dentalhealth.org/blog/cleaning-between-teeth-the-secret-behind-a-truly-healthy-smile?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=1625822825&gbraid=0AAAAADpTuCilz7gvHpMbSHsePbj2c89La&gclid=CjwKCAjwvO7CBhAqEiwA9q2YJbgXV_33C5RcHj84JQ9TXWLTEb1FTXnZywvdwYiHJBkaNPZDl0c9bRoCFAAQAvD_BwE
- https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/how-to-keep-your-teeth-clean/#:~:text=Slip%20the%20floss%20or%20dental,to%20clean%20between%20your%20teeth.
- https://salembraces.com/why-do-dentists-recommend-using-an-interdental-brush/#:~:text=Easier%20to%20Use,brackets%20and%20the%20metal%20archwire.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6630384/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/gum-disease/
- https://www.monadnockperio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Liang_2020QI-EBD-OHT.pdf?