Choosing the Best Way to Clean Between Teeth

Quick Smiles:

• Dentists say consistency with cleaning between teeth matters more than the tool you use.
• String floss is perfect for those who can use it properly, while interdental brushes help people with braces or dexterity issues.
• Experts agree: the best method is the one you’ll stick with every day.

Flossing is a vital part of any oral health routine, but the best tool can vary for each person. Dentists explain that whether you use string floss, interdental brushes, or other cleansers, what matters most is making it a daily habit.

Dr. Alice Boghosian from the American Dental Association notes many people find flossing challenging but stresses its importance. “It’s just an extra step that people have to do. But, quite simply, you have to.”

Some have trouble using string floss regularly, especially those with dexterity limits or braces. In these cases, interdental brushes or water flossers can be easier alternatives.

Dr. Shelia Yaghmai of the UCLA Dental Center recommends choosing a tool that feels comfortable and fits your needs. She says, “The one thing that I highly recommend to my patients is consistency.”

Traditional string floss can create a C-shape to reach the gum line and effectively remove plaque, but it’s important to use it gently to avoid harming gums.

Boghosian adds, “The ADA says you need to clean in between your teeth with something, be it floss, be it a brush, be it a little pick.” For those who struggle with string floss, Yaghmai suggests starting with the smallest size of interdental brush and increasing only if necessary.

Interdental brushes benefit those with larger gaps or braces, and their flexible design makes cleaning easier for many people.

When choosing how to clean between your teeth, experts agree that personal preference and consistency are key. Using something is better than nothing, and a daily routine is the best route to a healthy smile.

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