You may have heard your dentist or hygienist talking about inter-dental brushes, but what are they, what do they do and how could they benefit you?

What are inter-dental brushes?

Inter-dental brushes are small hand-held brushes with long, thin bristles. These brushes come in various sizes and are specially designed to target the spaces between the teeth that are difficult to clean with a toothbrush. Inter-dental brushes are an alternative to flossing and should be used as part of a good daily oral hygiene routine.

How do inter-dental brushes work?

Inter-dental brushes are very easy to use. You simply hold onto the small handle and navigate the bristles between the teeth. These brushes were developed with the aim of providing a simple and effective way of cleaning the tiny cracks between the teeth, as these tend to harbour bacteria and food debris and cannot be cleaned properly with a normal brush.

If you have any questions about using inter-dental brushes or you need advice, our dental team will be more than happy to help.

What are the benefits of using inter-dental brushes?

Using inter-dental brushes has multiple benefits for your oral health as well as the look of your smile. Inter-dental brushes help to remove bacteria and bits of leftover food that have become trapped between the teeth. This reduces the risk of plaque formation. Plaque is a colourless substance with a sticky consistency. It clings to the enamel and gum line and is made from saliva, bacteria and bits of food. The bacteria in plaque release acids when they feed and these acids are a major contributor to decay, acid erosion and gum disease. Inter-dental cleaning can also help to prevent staining and discolouration in areas hard to brush, giving you a brighter, healthier looking smile.