Good oral hygiene is essential for overall health, and it’s important to clean between your teeth in addition to brushing the surfaces.
You might be surprised to learn that interdental brushes are more effective at removing plaque than traditional flossing.
These small brushes are specially designed to reach those spaces between your teeth where a toothbrush can’t. They’re perfect for anyone aiming to improve dental health, especially if you’re tired of wrestling with floss.
Why choose interdental brushes instead of floss? They offer greater ease and comfort, particularly for those with tight or hard-to-reach spaces.
As a dentist, I advocate for their use. With more than a decade of experience, I have seen first hand that interdental brushes can reduce the risk of gum disease more effectively than brushing alone.
When shopping for the best interdental brushes for you, consider the size and type of bristles. A good fit will depend on the spaces between your teeth, so try different sizes to find the most comfortable match.
Ease of use, handle ergonomics, and durability are also key factors. We’ve spent many hours examining various interdental brushes to find those that make enhancing your dental routine easy and effective.
Quick Overview
What are Interdental Brushes?
Imagine trying to clean the gaps between your teeth with a tiny broom — that’s what interdental brushes are designed to do! These small brushes help you clean those tricky areas your toothbrush might miss.
Interdental brushes come in various sizes and shapes to fit different gaps between your teeth. With different lengths and angles, you can easily access those hard-to-reach spots in your mouth.
Most of these brushes feature nylon bristles attached to a plastic or metal handle. Some even sport a rubber or metal wire core to provide flexibility and strength while brushing.
What are the benefits of using Interdental Brushes?
Improved Oral Hygiene
Interdental brushes are specifically designed to access the spaces between teeth that toothbrushes often miss. By adding these brushes into your daily oral care routine, you can significantly lower the risk of developing gum disease and cavities. Their ability to remove plaque and food particles from hard-to-reach areas contributes to overall better oral health.
Ease of Use and Cost-Effectiveness
Using dental floss can be a challenging task, particularly for those with limited dexterity or those wearing braces. Interdental brushes offer a more user-friendly alternative, making it easier to clean between teeth effectively. Additionally, these brushes are reusable, which can lead to savings over time compared to disposable floss.
Gentle on Gums
Many people experience discomfort, bleeding, or irritation when using traditional floss. Interdental brushes are generally gentler on the gums, reducing the likelihood of these issues. They effectively clean the interdental spaces while minimising trauma to the gum tissue. By removing food particles and plaque, interdental brushes can help combat bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean after use.
Better for Cleaning Around Dental Appliances
Patients with dental appliances, such as bridges, implants, or braces, often find it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene. Interdental brushes are particularly good in these cases, as they can navigate around and between these structures more effectively than traditional brushing or flossing methods.
The Best Interdental Brushes – Our 7 Top Picks
Best Interdental Brushes Overall – Icon Optim Standard 6 Interdental Brushes Mixed Pack / Single size packs (The ones I give my patients and use myself!)
Best Interdental Brushes with Toothbrush Handle – Curaprox CPS Interdental Brush Mixed Starter Kit
Best Interdental Brushes for Braces – Tepe Interdental Brush Angle Mixed Pack
Best Interdental Brushes for Sensitive gums – TePe Interdental Brush, Extra Soft, Mixed Pack
Best Rubber Interdental Brushes – GUM Soft-Picks PRO interdental Cleaners
Best Value Interdental Brushes – Wisdom Clean Between Interdental Medium Brushes
Best Eco-Friendly Interdental Brushes – DenTek Earth Friendly Birch Wood Interdental Brushes
Best Interdental Brushes Overall
Icon Optim Standard 6 Interdental Brushes Mixed Pack
Key Features:
Bristles are strong and durable
Comfortable and versatile handling
Lid with every brush.
~ Price Per Brush = 30p Each
CLEANING SCORE: 9/10
EASE OF USE: 8/10
Why I recommend these interdental brushes:
I’ve been using these interdental brushes personally and at my dental clinic for years, and I can’t recommend them enough!
They’re easy to demonstrate and even easier for patients to use. We switched from TePe, which is quite well-known, and I’ve found these brushes to be not only superior in quality but also more reasonably priced.
My patients absolutely love them! They don’t bend easily and can last for weeks with daily use. Plus, they come in a full variety of sizes (0.35mm – 1.3mm), making it simple to find the perfect fit for every gap. Each brush also comes with a handy lid, so they’re easy to pop into your pocket when you’re on the go.
As someone currently wearing braces, I often find food getting stuck, so I always carry one with me for a quick clean. I honestly can’t imagine being without them.
I recommend purchasing the multipack. Just check the sizes you need and then order a bag of each—usually, you’ll only need two or three different sizes (ICON OPTIM Single Packs).
Best Interdental Brush with Toothbrush Handle
Curaprox CPS Interdental Brush Mixed Starter Kit
Key Features:
Bristles effectively remove plaque
Two different handles for reach
Refills click in easily
~ Price Per Refill Brush = 90p
CLEANING SCORE: 8/10
EASE OF USE: 8/10
Why I recommend these interdental brushes:
I’m always on the lookout for effective tools that can enhance my patients’ oral hygiene routines. I recently had the opportunity to use the Curaprox CPS Prime Start Interdental Brush Kit, and I must say, I’m thoroughly impressed with its design and functionality.
This kit includes five different sized brushes, along with two holders, making it a comprehensive solution for interdental cleaning. One of the standout features of these brushes is the ultra-fine bristles that create an umbrella effect. This design allows for gentle yet effective cleaning of the critical interdental space, ensuring that plaque and debris are thoroughly removed without risking injury to the gums.
The click system for the brushes is user-friendly. Any Curaprox interdental brush fits into any holder, so when it’s time for a refill, you simply click out the old brush and click in a new one. This ease of use encourages regular replacement, which is essential for maintaining optimal oral hygiene.
The system is a little more expensive, but of good build quality. Refill packs are readily available, making it convenient for my patients to keep their brush kits stocked.
Best Interdental Brushes for Braces
Tepe Interdental Brush Angle Mixed Pack
Key Features:
Strong bristles
Long handle for help reach under wires at the back of your mouth
Angled head design
~ Price Per Brush = 67p
CLEANING SCORE: 8/10
EASE OF USE: 7/10
Why I recommend these interdental brushes:
If you’ve just had your braces fitted, this is a great pack to get you started. It comes with one brush of each size (size 0 to size 6). You can then trial the brushes and see which ones fit best into the spaces between your teeth and under the wires.
You will need bigger brushes to keep your wires and brackets clean, and smaller ones to get in between teeth. Remember you want the brush to fit snugly into the space its cleaning, meaning the bristles engage well enough to remove bacteria.
Alternatively, your orthodontist could do the sizing for you and advise you on which you need, then you could buy the bags of two or three colours which are right for you. We have also written guides on Best Electric Toothbrush for Braces, Best Mouthwash for Braces and Best Floss for Braces to help you along on your orthodontic journey.
It’s often a struggle to clean those tight spaces between back teeth. With their long, angled handle, these brushes make it easier to access even the most hard-to-reach spots.
One thing you might find is that they can bend after a few uses, which is usually down to using the wrong size. They’re also not as easily portable as the Icon Optim Brushes, but good for keeping in the bathroom as part of your morning and evening routine.
TePe: Different handles and sizes
Best Interdental Brushes for Sensitive gums
TePe Interdental Brush, Extra Soft, Mixed Pack
Key Features:
Soft bristles are gentle on gums
Different sizes for different spaces
Adjustable to get in between
~ Price Per Brush = 56p
CLEANING SCORE: 6/10
EASE OF USE: 7/10
Why I recommend these interdental brushes:
Having tried the TePe Interdental Brush Extra Soft, I can attest to its gentleness, making it a great choice for people with sensitive gums. The extra soft filaments provide a comfortable cleaning experience, effectively removing plaque without causing irritation or discomfort.
This is particularly beneficial for patients who may have suffered from pain while using traditional floss or harder brushes, or have just started out using interdental aids and still have active gum disease.
The flexible design allows the brush to bend slightly, ensuring that it can navigate various gaps without risking damage to the gums. The TePe Extra Soft mixed pack again offers a range of sizes, from ISO size 1 to 6, which makes it easy to find the perfect fit for both narrow and wider gaps.
The only down side is the softer bristles tend to fray a little more easily than the standard TePe brushes. However, you may be willing to make this compromise for the gentler clean depending on the sensitivity of your gums.
Best Rubber Interdental Brushes (Metal-Free)
GUM Soft-Picks PRO interdental Cleaners
Key Features:
Metal Free
Rubber coated Bristles
Curved handle for access
~ Price Per Brush = 13p
CLEANING SCORE: 7/10
EASE OF USE: 8/10
Why I recommend these interdental brushes:
These are the first brushes I tried that had rubber bristles instead of metal and nylon. From speaking to my patients, a number of them just didn’t like the feeling of metal wires going in between their teeth, as it made them cringe! Its quite a common complaint.
The soft rubber bristles on these brushes (all 152 of them!) can effectively remove plaque and food particles, resulting in healthier gums, and ensuring a comfortable cleaning experience.
The curved handle design is easy to manoeuvre to the back of your mouth, as it follows the shape of your dental arch. The heads are tapered, so there’s leeway as to where the brushes can fit. I would always go for the smallest size, which can get into all the gaps, although it will clean some areas better than others.
I would say they’re better for general use, rather than for those patients with specific gums issues (Stick to Icon or Tepe).
Best Value Interdental Brushes
Wisdom Clean Between Interdental Medium Brushes
Key Features:
Metal Free
Rubber coated Bristles
Tapered design
~ Price Per Brush = 13p
CLEANING SCORE: 7/10
EASE OF USE: 7/10
Why I recommend these interdental brushes:
The Wisdom Clean Between Interdental Brushes are a good metal-free option, and they become even more cost-effective when purchased in bulk. Their slim shaft makes them easy to bend and manoeuvre, while the rubber bristles effectively remove plaque from those hard-to-reach areas.
Each brush features a tapered end and comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large. For most healthy mouths, the small size is typically the most suitable choice.
While these brushes are effective, they can be prone to breaking or bending if excessive pressure is applied, which is understandable given their sleek design. Additionally, the handles may not provide the best grip. Therefore, I recommend using a gentle touch to avoid any potential issues.
With careful handling, these brushes can be a valuable addition to your oral care routine.
Best Eco Friendly Interdental Brushes
DenTek Earth Friendly Birch Wood Interdental Brushes
Key Features:
Birch Wood Handle
Tapered design
~ Price Per Brush = 20p
CLEANING SCORE: 6/10
EASE OF USE: 7/10
Why I recommend these interdental brushes:
Made from sustainable birch wood, these brushes provide an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic options. Each pack contains six brushes, two of each size, making them a convenient choice for maintaining your oral hygiene.
The ISO1 size (0.45mm) is designed to fit comfortably between most teeth, allowing for effective cleaning in those tight spaces while the ISO2 and ISO3 are better for wider spaces.
The wire and bristles of the heads are comparable to other brands, but they have been know to separate from the handles. It’s important to note that while these brushes are a great eco-friendly choice, some users may find that they require a bit more effort to achieve the same level of cleanliness as alternatives, as the handle shape isn’t as ergonomic.
While the DenTek brushes may not last quite as long as some other interdental options, their sustainable credentials make them a worthy consideration for environmentally aware consumers.
Buying Guide – How to choose the best interdental brush for your needs
Choosing the right interdental brush can seem daunting with so many options out there, but don’t worry they can be broken down into component parts and exploring the benefits of each of these will help you make the right decision.
Types of Interdental Brush
Interdental brushes come in a variety of head shapes, including straight, angled, and tapered designs, each tailored to meet different oral hygiene needs.
The handles of these brushes also vary; some are long, allowing you to hold them like a traditional toothbrush, while others are short, designed to be held comfortably between your fingers.
When selecting an interdental brush, it’s essential to consider which areas of your mouth require particular attention. Each head shape offers unique benefits, making it easier to target specific spaces between your teeth and around dental appliances.
Small Straight Interdental Brushes e.g. Icon Optim
Design: Straight handle and a straight bristle head.
Benefits: Ideal for cleaning between teeth in areas that are easily accessible, such as the front teeth.
Best for: Patients with wider gaps between teeth or those who prefer a straightforward approach to interdental cleaning.
Long Handled Angled Interdental Brushese.g.Tepe Interdental Brush Angle
Design: Handle that is bent at an angle.
Benefits: Perfect for cleaning the back teeth where access is more challenging; helps maneuver around dental appliances like braces or crowns.
Best for: Patients who have limited dexterity or need to reach specific areas more easily.
Tapered Interdental Brushes e.g. Wisdom Clean
Design: Conical shape, gradually narrowing from base to tip.
Benefits: Excellent for cleaning between teeth that are closely spaced or for areas that require a gentle touch.
Best for: Patients with tighter gaps or those who are sensitive to pressure while cleaning.
Size and Shape
Selecting the correct size is crucial for effective cleaning. Imagine trying to clean in between your teeth with a brush that’s too large—it just won’t work! Look for a range of sizes, often colour-coded, to find the perfect fit for your gaps.
Bristle Material
When selecting interdental brushes, the material of the bristles plays a crucial role in your oral hygiene experience. The two primary options available are nylon and rubber bristles, each offering distinct advantages.
Nylon Bristles: Nylon bristles are a popular choice for many users due to their availability. They are ideal for individuals with sensitive gums or periodontal issues, as their flexibility allows for effective cleaning without causing irritation. Additionally, nylon bristles often come with rubber ends that provide an extra layer of comfort, helping to protect delicate gum tissue while effectively removing plaque and debris from between teeth.
Rubber Bristles: Rubber bristles, on the other hand, offer a unique cleaning experience. They are softer and more flexible than traditional nylon bristles, allowing them to conform to the contours of your teeth and gums for a thorough clean. Rubber bristles gently massage the gums, promoting healthy circulation and reducing the risk of inflammation. They are also easier to clean and maintain, as they are less likely to trap debris and bacteria, enhancing overall hygiene and the longevity of the brush.
Soft vs. Firm Bristles:If your gums are sensitive, soft bristles can be a lifesaver. Firm bristles, on the other hand, are great if you need a more thorough clean. Check your comfort level to decide which to choose.
Cost and Longevity
Price can vary, but quality interdental brushes are an investment in your dental health. Some last longer than others, which can save you money over time. Consider your budget and how often you’ll need to replace them.
How to use interdental brushes – Proper technique
Using interdental brushes effectively can greatly enhance your oral care routine. This involves selecting the right size, using proper insertion techniques, ensuring thorough cleaning, and maintaining the brush’s condition.
Use Pre-Brushing: Its best to use your interdental brushes before brushes. This will dislodge food debris and plaque from the areas in between teeth, ready to be brushed away completely when you brush.
Choosing the right size:Begin with a small-sized interdental brush, and if needed, move to a larger size. These brushes are usually colour-coded for easy selection.
Proper angle and insertion:Hold the brush at a90-degree angleto your teeth. Gently insert it into the gap, avoiding any forceful movements.
Systematic cleaning:Work through all tooth gaps systematically. If you notice bleeding, spend extra time cleaning that area. Move the brush back and forth several times.
Post-use care:After cleaning, rinse the brush thoroughly and store it correctly. Regular replacement is key for maintaining their effectiveness.
Interdental Brushes vs Floss
When it comes tointerdental care, you might wonder: Are interdental brushes really better than floss? Both play a role in keeping teeth and gums healthy, but they serve different needs.
Interdental brushes are small brushes designed to clean those tricky spaces between teeth. Studies show they can bemore effective than flossin removing plaque, especially for people with wider gaps between their teeth. Furthermore, they’re instrumental in preventing and managing gum disease.
Many of my patients have shared success stories. Before using interdental brushes, their gum health was declining, despite regular flossing. Switching to interdental brushes made a noticeable improvement in a few weeks.
Floss is a classic choice. It’s effective for reaching thosetight spacesbetween teeth. Yet, some find it challenging to manoeuvre, especially if their teeth are crowded or they’re new to flossing.
And what about mouthwash? It’s super easy to use and leaves you feeling fresh. Yet, it doesn’t remove plaque as effectively as physical cleaning methods like brushes or floss.
For managing periodontal disease, a combination approach is key. Using floss, interdental brushes, mouthwash, and even an electric toothbrush (see Best Electric Toothbrush) helpskeep periodontal issues at bay. This multi-pronged strategy ensures a more thorough cleaning routine.
Top tips from a Dentist
Replace Regularly: Change your interdental brush every week or sooner if you notice any wear. A worn brush is less effective at cleaning between teeth.
Get Comfortable: Using an interdental brush may feel awkward at first, but it gets easier with practice. Regular use will improve your dexterity and comfort level.
Versatile Uses: Interdental brushes can be used not only for cleaning between teeth but also for reaching hard-to-access areas in the mouth, such as around dental implants and bridges.
Ensure a Snug Fit: Choose the right size interdental brush for your teeth. A snug fit is essential for effective cleaning without causing damage to your gums.
Expect Some Discomfort: It’s normal to experience some soreness or bleeding when you first start using an interdental brush. If bleeding persists, consult your dentist for advice.
Management of Gum Disease
Dealing with gum disease can be a long and difficult process. First things first: regular brushing twice a day with a good electric toothbrush is your front-line defence. Using interdental brushes can reach those sneaky spots between your teeth where disease causing plaque loves to settle and cause havoc with your gums.
Professional care is also key. Seeing your dentist regularly ensures any gum issues are spotted early. They can conductprofessional cleaningto remove tartar and stubborn plaque that regular brushing might miss. If necessary, your dentist might prescribe medications to combat inflammation or infection.
Lifestyle and diet play an essential role too. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals helps keep your gums healthy. And yes, stopping smoking is a strong step in the right direction—your gums will thank you!
Here’s a quick checklist forconsistent oral hygiene:
Brush twice daily
Floss or use interdental brushes
Regular dental check-ups
Sticking to a consistent oral hygiene routine may seem tedious, but it’s about making small changes that can lead to big results. By sticking to these steps, you’re on the path to healthier gums and a brighter smile.
FAQs
Are interdental brushes reusable?
Yes, they are! You can useinterdental brushesa few times until the bristles wear out. Just make sure to rinse them thoroughly after each use.
Why do my gums bleed when using interdental brushes?
Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum inflammation. Initially, your gums might bleed when you start using them. With regular use, bleeding should decrease as your gums become healthier. Make sure you’re using the right sized brushes and but also get checked by a professional. There may be other factors causing your gum problems such as infection or defective dental restorations.
Can interdental brushes cause gaps?
On their own, interdental brushes don’t create gaps. They clean the spaces between teeth, which can make you aware of existing gaps or misalignment.The myth exists due to the shrinking back of gums back to normal once they become healthier, less inflamed and less swollen. Some recession can occur if you have had gum problems for a while, but this is better than with continuing gum disease which can lead to tooth loss.
How do I know which interdental brush to use?
The best way is to consult yourdentist. They can recommend which size suits you. Alternatively, you could purchase a box with multiple sizes and see what fits best.
Which interdental brushes are best for cleaning between composite bonding?
If you’ve had your front teeth bonded for cosmetic purposes chances are the gaps between them are very tight. It may be best to use floss in this case, or very thin interdental brush such as ISO-0 or ISO-1 (Pink or Orange).
Do dentists recommend interdental brushes?
Yes, most dentists recommend interdental brushes. They’re excellent for reaching areas that regular brushing might miss.
How many times can you reuse interdental brushes?
You can reuse them for around a week of daily use. It’s best to replace them when the bristles start to bend or fray.
Can interdental brushes replace floss?
While they are a great addition to oral care, they can’t completely replace flossing. Using both provides comprehensive care.
Conclusion
Interdental brushes are essential for maintaining oral health, as they effectively remove plaque from areas that toothbrushes cannot reach. Dentists emphasise the importance of interdental cleaning because healthy gums significantly contribute to overall oral well-being.
Following professional advice is crucial, and you can also seek personalised recommendations from your dentist. They can suggest the most suitable products tailored to your specific needs.
If your gums frequently bleed despite regular use of interdental brushes, it could indicate the presence of tartar buildup or an improperly fitting filling. In such cases, consulting a dentist or a specialist periodontist is advisable.
While incorporating interdental brushes into your routine is beneficial, nothing replaces the value of a professional consultation. If you experience persistent oral discomfort, seeking expert advice is always a wise decision.
