The Ultimate Guide to the Best Interdental Brushes: Must-Haves for Oral Health

Ever wondered what those tiny brushes you may have spotted in the dental care aisle are for? You know the ones – the teeny tiny straight brushes often attached to colourful plastic handles. They’re interdental brushes − small, specialised tools designed to clean those tricky ‘interdental’ spaces between your teeth where your regular toothbrush simply can’t reach. These clever little brushes can clean up to 40% more tooth surface than a toothbrush alone, making them incredibly effective at removing plaque and food particles from tight gaps. This is why interdental brushes come highly recommended and are increasingly popular in the UK.  

The brush head features tiny bristles mounted on a small wire handle and comes in various sizes to fit different gaps between teeth. Some have nylon bristles on a brush head made from rubber for a gentle clean, while others have metal wire cores for added flexibility. So there’s truly something for everyone, whatever your dental needs might be.

6 Reasons Interdental Brushes are a Good Choice

Wondering whether interdental brushes are worth adding to your daily oral-care routine? Here’s why they’re a smart choice for your oral hygiene:

1. Better plaque removal: Interdental brushes reach places your toothbrush simply can’t, effectively removing plaque from those hidden spots. Since plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, targeting those hard-to-reach areas is crucial.
2. Improved gum health: These brushes are brilliant for cleaning along the gumline, ensuring harmful bacteria are removed before they can cause damage. Regular use helps maintain healthy gums and reduces your risk of gingivitis and periodontitis. 
3. Ease of use: Many of our patients find interdental brushes easier and more comfortable to use than floss, especially those with braces, implants, or bridges. The interdental brush angle makes it easy to reach the back of your mouth without any awkward fiddling.
4. Effective for specific dental needs: Whether you have small or large gaps between your teeth or are wearing braces, there’s a variety of sizes to ensure a thorough clean between your teeth, whatever your situation. They’re also considered more effective for patients suffering from gum disease or inflammation.
5. Cost-effective and eco-friendly: Unlike dental floss, interdental brushes are reusable, making them a more sustainable and cost-effective choice in the long run.
6. Backed by experts: Dentists and dental hygienists across the UK (including our team at Hampstead Orthodontic Practice) recommend interdental brushes over floss for cleaning between teeth. 

What Makes a Good Interdental Brush?

Choosing the right interdental brush can make all the difference to your oral health. Here’s what to look for:

Something durable: A good interdental brush should have strong, long-lasting bristles that won’t bend or break easily. However, the bristles should also be gentle enough to clean without damaging your gums.

One with an ergonomic handle: Look for a brush with a comfortable, non-slip handle. Some brushes have longer handles to make it easier to reach those awkward spots in the back of your mouth.

The right size: Since everyone’s teeth are different, finding the right size is essential. You’ll want to pick a brush that fits snugly between your teeth to get the best clean. Brushes available range from small to large, allowing you to customise your cleaning.

Soft, flexible bristles: To avoid irritating your gums, opt for a brush with soft bristles. Flexible bristles are particularly useful for reaching deeper areas between the teeth without causing discomfort.

High-quality materials: Ensure the brush is made from durable, non-abrasive materials. Quality brushes often feature nylon, plastic, or rubber bristles and a flexible wire to ensure a long-lasting, gentle clean.

Who Might Benefit from Using Interdental Brushes?

While they’re great tools for cleaning with braces, interdental brushes aren’t just for people with braces – they’re beneficial for many of our patients, including:

Those with Braces or Dental Work

If you have braces, implants, or bridges, brushing and flossing can be tricky and may not be as effective. Interdental brushes can easily clean around your braces and other dental devices, making them ideal when adjusting to life with braces. 

People with Larger Gaps Between Teeth 

If your teeth have naturally larger spaces, interdental brushes are ideal for cleaning between them, effectively removing plaque and food particles.

Anyone with Gum Disease or Gingivitis

If you have or are prone to gum disease, interdental brushes can be an excellent addition to your routine. They help to remove plaque from under the gums, keeping the area clean and reducing the risk of inflammation.

People Who Find Flossing Difficult

Some of our patients find flossing painful or difficult due to arthritis or other physical limitations. Interdental brushes offer an easier alternative that still provides an excellent clean.

Those Who Want to Maintain Good Oral Health

Even if you don’t have specific dental concerns, using an interdental brush is a great way to maintain oral health. By regularly cleaning between your teeth, you can ensure that your gums stay healthy and your smile remains plaque-free.

5 Top-Selling Interdental Brush Brands in the UK

When it comes to choosing the best interdental brushes, several options stand out for their quality and effectiveness. Here are some of the top recommended brands:

1. TePe: As a leading brand around the world, TePe is recommended by dental hygienists. Known for its ergonomically designed handles and range of sizes, TePe brushes are ideal for tailored cleaning. The TePe angled brush, in particular, is one of the best interdental brushes for cleaning the back teeth, offering a comfortable grip and precise cleaning.
2. Curaprox: If you’re looking for durability and ultra-soft bristles, Curaprox is a top choice. Their brushes, such as the CPS Prime range, feature ultrafine bristles with an umbrella effect, making them an excellent option for people with sensitive gums, braces, or implants. Refill packs also ensure less plastic waste. 
3. GUM (by Sunstar): The GUM Proxabrush has a flexible handle, making it easier to access the interdental spaces in the back of your mouth. Their brushes come in both regular and soft-bristle versions, catering to different needs in terms of gum sensitivity.
4. Wisdom: This is an affordable yet reliable option. Their metal-free brushes are particularly popular among people with braces. They also offer brushes in a variety of sizes, so you can find the right one for your gaps.
5. Proxabrush: Known for their slim design, Proxabrush brushes are effective at cleaning the tightest interdental gaps, ensuring that even the most difficult spaces are properly cleaned.

How to Choose the Right Interdental Brush for You

Not sure which interdental brush is best for you? Here are some simple tips to help guide your choice:

Consider the size of your gaps: If your gaps between teeth are small, start with a smaller size. If you have wider gaps, opt for a larger brush. You might need to try out different sizes.

Consider your gum sensitivity: If you have sensitive gums, it’s best to choose a brush with soft or extra-soft bristles. Nylon bristles are gentle but effective at cleaning, so they're a great option for most people.

Take note of the handle design: An ergonomic handle can make a huge difference, especially to clean the spaces around the back teeth. Look for a brush with a flexible handle that’s comfortable to hold.

Consult with your dentist: Don’t hesitate to ask your dentist or hygienist to recommend the best interdental brush based on your unique oral health needs.

Conclusion

Interdental brushes are handy tools for maintaining healthy gums and preventing gum disease. By adding an interdental brush to your daily oral care routine, you can ensure thorough interdental cleaning and enjoy a fresher, healthier smile. Whether you have braces, dental work, or just want to keep your teeth in top shape, interdental brushes are a simple yet effective way to clean those hard-to-reach spaces between your teeth.

Interested in learning more about how to keep your teeth and gums healthy? Book a consultation with Hampstead Orthodontic Practice today, and one of our experienced team members will guide you. Contact us for a free consultation.

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