If your dentist keeps telling you that brushing alone isn't enough — they're right. Even the best toothbrush can only clean about 60% of your tooth surfaces. The spaces between your teeth — where bacteria hide and plaque builds up — are completely missed by a standard brush. That's where interdental brushes come in.
What Is an Interdental Brush?
An interdental brush (also called an interproximal brush or proxy brush) is a small, cylindrical brush designed to slide between your teeth. It removes plaque and food debris from the tight spaces a toothbrush simply cannot reach.
Unlike traditional floss, interdental brushes are reusable, easier to handle, and more effective for people with larger gaps, dental implants, braces, or bridges.
Choosing the Right Size
This is the most important step. An interdental brush that's too small won't clean properly; one that's too large can cause discomfort or damage your gums. Common sizes range from 0.4mm to 1.5mm+:
- 0.4mm – 0.5mm: Very tight spaces, typically front teeth
- 0.6mm – 0.8mm: Average interdental gaps
- 1.0mm – 1.5mm: Wider gaps, bridges, implants, or back molars
You should feel a slight resistance when inserting the brush — but it should never hurt. Start with the smallest size and work up.
How to Use an Interdental Brush: Step by Step
- Start with a clean brush. Bend the flexible neck to a comfortable angle.
- Insert between teeth at a slight angle, following the natural curve of your gum line. Don't force it straight in.
- Move in and out gently — 2–3 strokes per gap is enough. No twisting or scrubbing needed.
- Rinse the brush after each gap. No toothpaste required.
- Work around the whole mouth — both the cheek-facing and palate-facing sides of each gap.
When Should You Use Them?
Once a day, ideally in the evening before your regular brushing. Most brushes can be reused for 3–5 days before the bristles show signs of wear.
Benefits of Interdental Brushes
- Reduces gum disease risk — plaque between teeth is a primary cause of gingivitis
- Prevents cavities between teeth — interdental cavities are among the most common and hardest to detect early
- Easier to use than floss — especially for people with limited dexterity, braces, or dental work
- Reusable — more eco-friendly than single-use floss when properly rinsed
- Recommended by the British Society of Periodontology as the preferred method for cleaning between teeth
Are They Better Than Floss?
For most adults, yes — particularly where there's any space between the teeth. Floss works best in very tight contacts, while interdental brushes are superior for cleaning larger or irregular gaps. The most important thing is that you're cleaning between your teeth every single day.
Sanitral Interdental Brushes
Our Sanitral Angle Interdental Brushes feature a flexible angled neck for easy access to back teeth, a comfortable rubber handle, and fine nylon bristles that clean thoroughly without scratching enamel. Available in 6 sizes — from 0.4mm to 1.5mm.
Common Questions
My gums bleed when I use them — is that normal?
Some bleeding in the first 1–2 weeks is normal if you're new to interdental cleaning. It usually stops as your gums become healthier. Persistent bleeding beyond two weeks warrants a dentist visit.
Can I use them with braces?
Yes — guide the brush carefully beneath the wire at each bracket. Thin sizes (0.4–0.6mm) work well here.
Do I need to use toothpaste?
No. Water is fine. Fluoride toothpaste can be added if you prefer, but it's not necessary for effective plaque removal.