Interdental brushes aren’t discussed very often when it comes to dental care and oral hygiene. You normally hear dentists or television commercials say, “Brush and floss twice a day or after meals.” But interdental brushes can be a vital part of your oral hygiene regimen. Today’s blog from Parkcrest Dental Group explains how to use interdental brushes for best results in dental care.
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What Are Interdental Brushes?
Rather than using floss, interdental brushes may offer a better clean than flossing alone for dental care. These tools have a long handle that’s about the size of a short pencil, which makes them easier to hold for people who have arthritis or mobility issues. Interdental brushes can also get in between teeth when you have braces.
How Do Interdental Brushes Work?
The key to interdental brushes is the head. It’s a narrow cone that has fuzzy bristles. The bristles fill the whole gap between teeth, whereas floss only covers some of the gap. The bristles are thicker and stiffer, so they can remove more food particles compared to floss.
How Do You Use Interdental Brushes?
Interdental brushes are a little more involved than flossing. Press the tip up against the side of one tooth and push the interdental brush all the way through, but don’t poke your gums or palate. Retract the tip all the way back out. If you see food particles or debris on it, rinse off the tip. Then go in the same area and get the tooth next to the one you just did. Be sure to use your interdental brush each day as part of a complete dental care routine.
Reusable
The bristles on interdental brushes are sturdy yet soft. They usually last about a week before you need to replace them, unlike floss that you discard after one use. Rather than throw away the entire interdental brush, simply purchase replacement bristles and store them until you need them.
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Dental Care & Interdental Brushes by Parkcrest Dental
The staff at Parkcrest Dental Group can show you how to use interdental brushes, whether you have braces or want a more convenient flossing tool for dental care. Contact Parkcrest Dental Group or call (417) 887-1220 for more dental care tips for you and your family.