Interdental Cleaning

Interdental cleaning, which includes techniques like flossing and using interdental brushes, is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene for the following reasons

  • Plaque removal: interdental cleaning disrupts plaque and biofilm, this in turn reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease
  • Control of gum disease: which is primarily caused by the bacteria that lives in plaque deposits. This initiates a complex immune response which leads to inflammation of the gums. This inflammation damages the periodontal ligament and can progress to periodontal disease resulting in tooth mobility and eventually tooth loss. Multiple factors can influence the rate and severity of gum disease
  • Cleaning of restorations: Interdental cleaning is particularly important for plaque control around dental restorations such as crowns/bridges/implants which can be more prone to plaque accumulation than teeth
  • Control of cariogenic bacteria: Plaque can be colonised by cariogenic bacteria such as streptococcus mutans, if it isn’t removed then the risk of decay increases
  • Bad breath: Uncontrolled plaque can lead to halitosis (bad breath)

Flossing technique

  • Take floss length of 20-25 inches long and wrap the ends around your middle fingers, leaving about 1 to 2 inches of floss between your fingers.
  • Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers, leaving a small section of floss taut and ready for use.
  • Gently guide the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion.
  • Curve the floss into a C-shape around the base of each tooth, and slide it up and down against the tooth surface.
  • Be careful not to snap or force the floss into your gums, as this can cause irritation or injury.
  • As you move from tooth to tooth, use a clean section of floss each time to avoid spreading bacteria or debris.
  • Make sure to floss both sides of every tooth, including the back teeth that are harder to reach.
  • Reach all the way to the gumline, as this is where plaque and food particles tend to accumulate.
  • Once you have finished flossing, rinse your mouth with water or an antimicrobial mouthwash to remove any loosened debris.
  • Aim to floss at least once daily

Interdental brushing Technique

  • Select an interdental brush that fits the space between the teeth without being painful or needing excessive force. Most people will need to use a combination of sizes
  • Hold the interdental brush between your thumb and forefinger.
  • Gently insert the brush into the space between your teeth, moving it back and forth in a straight motion.
  • Ensure the bristles of the interdental brush come into contact with both sides of the teeth.
  • Move the brush in and out a few times to dislodge any food particles or plaque.
  • Repeat the process for each interdental space, especially focusing on areas where your teeth are close together or where you have gaps or dental work.
  • Rinse the interdental brush under water to remove any debris and continue using it until it becomes worn or frayed, but no more than a couple of days
  • After use, clean the brush thoroughly and let it air dry before storing it in a clean, dry place.
  • Repeat at least once daily