Many people brush their teeth daily, yet still experience cavities or gum problems.

The reason:

A large part of the tooth surface lies between the teeth – and is often not cleaned.

In these areas, the following accumulate:

  • Plaque
  • Bacteria
  • Food debris

This is precisely where the following often occur:

  • Cavities
  • Gum inflammation
  • Bad breath

Why your toothbrush isn't enough

A toothbrush primarily cleans:

  • the front surfaces
  • the back surfaces
  • the chewing surfaces

The interdental spaces usually remain insufficiently cleaned.

Studies show:

Up to 40% of the tooth surface lies between the teeth


Dental floss or interdental brushes – which is better?

This is the most important question.

Dental floss

Advantages:

  • good for very tight interdental spaces
  • easy to use

Disadvantages:

  • often less effective at removing plaque
  • more difficult to use
  • doesn't reach all areas optimally

 Interdental brushes

Advantages:

  • significantly more effective plaque removal
  • also clean larger interdental spaces
  • easier to use
  • better control

Many dentists recommend interdental brushes as the most effective method


When should you use what?

 Ideally, you combine both:

  • Dental floss → for very tight spaces
  • Interdental brushes → for all accessible spaces

In practice, interdental brushes are often the most important addition to a toothbrush.


How often should you clean interdental spaces?

Recommendation:

  • Once daily, ideally in the evening

Why in the evening?

  • Removal of plaque before the night
  • less bacterial activity
  • better regeneration of the gums

How to clean interdental spaces correctly

Interdental brushes:

  • insert carefully into the interdental space
  • gently move back and forth
  • do not apply pressure

Dental floss:

  • gently guide between the teeth
  • wrap in a C-shape around the tooth
  • gently move up and down

Important: always work gently


SNOW PEARL Interdental Brushes – effective daily cleaning

The SNOW PEARL Interdental Brushes were specially developed to enable thorough yet gentle cleaning.

Advantages:

  • effective plaque removal
  • gentle on the gums
  • suitable for daily use
  • ideal for hard-to-reach areas

Perfect as a supplement to your toothbrush.


Combine interdental care + enamel protection

The best oral hygiene comes from combining:

  • Toothbrush → basic cleaning
  • Interdental care → deep cleaning
  • Toothpaste → protection and remineralization

Products like:

additionally support:

  • Enamel strengthening
  • Protection against cavities
  • Fresh breath

Common mistakes in interdental care

  • Not cleaning interdental spaces at all
  • Cleaning too infrequently
  • Using the wrong brush size
  • Applying too much pressure

Applied correctly, interdental care is simple and effective.


Who is interdental care particularly important for?

  • People with sensitive gums
  • People with gum problems
  • Wearers of crowns, bridges, or implants
  • Everyone who wants to improve their oral health

Result

Less plaque, healthier gums, and a significantly cleaner feeling in the mouth.


Conclusion

Cleaning interdental spaces is a crucial part of daily dental care.

Key points:

  • Toothbrush alone is not enough
  • Interdental brushes are particularly effective
  • Daily use is crucial

 In combination with modern dental care, complete oral hygiene for long-term healthy teeth is achieved.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about interdental cleaning

Why is it important to clean interdental spaces?

Interdental spaces make up around 30% of the total tooth surface. These areas cannot be adequately cleaned with a toothbrush alone. Plaque, bacteria, and food debris accumulate there, which can promote cavities, gum inflammation, and bad breath.

Are interdental brushes better than dental floss?

Interdental brushes often clean larger interdental spaces more effectively than dental floss. Dental floss is particularly suitable for very tight spaces. Which method is better depends on the individual dental situation.

How often should you clean interdental spaces?

Dentists recommend cleaning the interdental spaces once a day. The evening is usually the best time, as plaque and food debris can be removed before the night.

Can interdental spaces only be cleaned with a toothbrush?

No. Even modern sonic toothbrushes only partially reach interdental spaces. For complete oral hygiene, dental floss or interdental brushes are necessary.

Which interdental brush is the right one?

The right interdental brush should fill the interdental space as well as possible without applying pressure or injuring the gums. The optimal size can be determined during dental hygiene or by the dentist.

Do gums bleed at the beginning of interdental cleaning?

Slight gum bleeding can occur at the beginning, especially if the interdental spaces have not been cleaned regularly before. In many cases, this improves after a few days of consistent care. If bleeding persists, a dental check-up should be performed.

Which products support interdental cleaning?

Dental floss and interdental brushes are suitable for daily cleaning. Additionally, a fluoride toothpaste, a gentle sonic toothbrush, and consistent oral hygiene support the health of teeth and gums.

 

Dr. Lorenza Dahm

Lorenza Dahm