Your dentists in Bayshore NY Explore the Differences Between Interdental Brushes and Floss

Just like the argument between manual and electric toothbrushes, the debate over dental floss and interdental brushes is more reliant upon personal preference than anything else. However, your dentists in Bayshore NY are here to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of both to help you choose the best tool for you. Whether you choose floss or interdental brushes, it’s important to commit to cleaning between the teeth once a day!

 

Interdental Brushes

Advantages

  • It’s easy to do: insert between the teeth and move in a back and forth motion

  • Easy to clean large gaps formed between tilted teeth, dental crowns or dental bridges

  • No wax layer is formed over the tooth’s surface, which is seen in dental floss

  • It’s effective for orthodontic patients who need to clean between complicated spaces that floss will be unable to reach

 

Disadvantages

  • Requires wetting or lubrication before using

  • More expensive than floss

  • The wire in the center of the brush could cause harm to the gum flap between the teeth (dental papilla) if used too aggressively. It can also cause harm by accidentally pricking or poking the gums while cleaning.

  • Even though you can clean the interdental brush, it will never be completely sterile after one use

 

Floss

Advantages

  • Little chance of gum damage from excessive pressure

  • Little to no chance of dental papilla destruction

  • Ability to clean the entire tooth’s side instead of just the gaps between

  • Each new piece of floss is hygienic and sterile

 

Disadvantages

  • Waxy floss can leave behind a wax layer, which can often act as an initiator for plaque accumulation

  • Larger interdental spaces are tough to clean with a single strand

  • Floss can be wasteful since it’s used only once and then thrown away. If you floss once a day, you will use about 5 miles of floss in your lifetime!

 

Although there are many advantages and disadvantages for both sides, it’s important to pick an oral hygiene routine that is best for your specific dental needs. If you’re still not sure which method of cleaning between the teeth is best for you, then contact your dentists in Bayshore NY at (631) 665-8484.