Choosing The Right Way To Clean Between Your Teeth

Floss – Superfloss – Interdental Brushes – Toothpicks

They can all reach between teeth and all are used to remove plaque and food particles from these spaces. But which one is the best?

Dr. Teo would prefer to answer the question: which way is the right way for YOU? There isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ solution when it comes to cleaning between your teeth.

How Do You Decide The Best way To Clean Between Your Teeth?

One thing to consider is how wide the gaps are in between particular teeth. Even in the same mouth, the size of these gaps will vary. The front teeth may have tiny gaps, whilst back teeth often have broader gaps. You may find that floss works best for the front teeth, and one or more different sizes of interdental brushes work better at the back.

If you wear braces or have bridges or implants, you might have spaces that floss cannot clean well. In these cases Superfloss or a certain size of interdental brush might be the better way.

What if you find floss difficult, messy or even a bit gross to use. For you, interdental brushes might be the preferred solution.

So What About Toothpicks?

Toothpicks are not generally the preferred solution. They can be handy if you have some food caught in between your teeth and may be a more socially-acceptable method in certain cultures (most people will raise an eyebrow if you pulled out floss at the dinner table!). However, toothpicks are not flexible enough to clean the gaps well, and may cause damage to the gum if you are not very careful. Use toothpicks with great care.

If you want to know the best way to clean between your teeth, feel free to ask Dr. Teo at your next appointment. She is more than happy to make personalised recommendations based on your individual circumstances.