How to Use Interdental Brushes and Picks for Best Results

I used to remember as a child a TV commercial when they sang to brush three times a day.  Well, maintaining optimal oral hygiene goes way beyond regular brushing, but it also involves cleaning in between your teeth to remove plaque and food particles that toothbrushes might have missed. Interdental cleaners like interdental brushes and picks are essential tools for this.  They are handy devices you can use to effectively reach on tight spaces and can be particularly beneficial for people with braces, dental implants or maybe wide gaps between their teeth.  So here’s a small guide on how to use interdental brushes and picks for the most effective result.

Choosing the Right Interdental Cleaner

To improve your smile, it is important to select the right interdental cleaner for your needs.  These brushes come in various sizes, so make sure to choose one that fits you comfortably between your teeth without causing discomfort.  So if you have larger gaps, a bigger brush might be necessary.  While in narrower spaces, you may require smaller sizes.  Similarly, interdental picks come in different designs and materials; some also have flexible tips for easier access.  You can consult with your dentist to determine the best option for your oral health.  But for the meantime, here’s a step-by-step guide to using interdental brushes:

1. Insert the Brush: You should hold the interdental brush gently in between your thumb and index finger, like how you would hold out a pencil.  Then, carefully insert the brush between your teeth at an angle of about 45 degrees.  Make sure it fits snugly and is not forced into the space.
2. Brush Gently: Once your brush is in place, use a gentle back and forth motion to clean the area.  Move your brush like 2 to 3 times to effectively dislodge any plaque or debris.  And if you encounter any resistance, switch to a smaller size rather than forcing it through.
3. Clean All Areas: Don’t forget also to clean in between all your teeth.  Pay special attention to your hard to reach molars.  You might need to use the brush from both the inside and outside of your teeth to make sure you have thoroughly cleaned them.
4. Rinse and Store: Once you’re done with using the interdental brush, rinse them under water to remove any debris.  It is always best to replace interdental brushes weekly to maintain their effectiveness. And make sure to store them after use.

Using Interdental Picks

Using interdental picks can be an alternative for cleaning between teeth, especially if you find your brushes difficult to use.

1. Position the Pick:  You should hold the pick by the handle and then place the pointed end between your teeth.  Like how you use your brushes, aim for a 45-degree angle for optimal access.
2. Gentle Motion:  Now, slide the pick in and out gently.  Use a rocking motion to clean the space between your teeth.  Also, avoid using excessive force, for this may harm your gums.

Use Regularly:  You can use the interdental picks and have them in your daily oral hygiene routine.  Ideally, use them once a day before brushing your teeth.