We all know how important it is to brush your teeth twice a day. It is something that is instilled in us from a very young age. However, is brushing enough?
Brushing alone removes half of the plaque in your mouth. Your toothbrush can clean the front, back and biting surface of your teeth. However, bacteria and plaque also form in the space between your teeth, an area that your toothbrush can’t reach. This bacteria needs to be removed regularly or it can lead to bad breath, gum disease and cavities. Interdental brushes are the most effective tool available today to help remove this bacteria and plaque.
What are Interdental Brushes?
Interdental brushes are small brushes, usually circular or cone shaped, with thin bristles attached to a wire. The handle to these brushes varies depending on the brand you use. However, most brushes you see will have a short handle with an easy grip. These brushes are used to clean in between your teeth. They remove the bacteria in areas that your normal toothbrush can’t reach.
Using interdental brushes as part of your daily oral hygiene is essential. We recommend using this brush in your daily routine, before you use your toothbrush. Cleaning in between your teeth once or twice a week is not enough.
Why use INTERDENTAL BRUSHES?
Professor Denis Bourgeois, Dean of the University of Lyon’s dental faculty, refers to a study carried out in 2017 where it was proven that interdental brushes are the most efficient tool for removing bacteria from in between your teeth.
Another study carried out in The University of British Columbia showed that people that use interdental brushes tend to stick to their dental routine over those that use flossing. The introduction of brushes has helped to motivate people to include interdental hygiene into their daily routine. The reason for this is that people find them easier and more comfortable to use than flossing.
Don’t be Discouraged
We know a lot of people are discouraged from using floss or interdental brushes due to their gums bleeding after the first use. Do not let this put you off. This is due to the inflammation of the interdental space, due to the buildup of bacteria. If you persevere, the bleeding will stop as your gums get healthier and the inflammation reduces. In a couple of days the bleeding will stop. However, if bleeding persists, we would advise that you get it checked out from a professional.
You may think you have healthy teeth and gums, and are doing enough by brushing them twice daily, but we can’t stress enough the importance of this added step into your daily oral hygiene routine.
“BRUSHING ALONE ONLY REMOVES HALF OF THE PLAQUE IN YOUR MOUTH”
To get the most out of your interdental brush, it is essential you get the right sized brush for you, and also know how to use the brush correctly to remove as much as the bacteria as possible. Next time you are in with us, we would be more than happy to show you how to use your interdental brush, and recommend the best size for you.
