What is an interdental brush?
An interdental brush is a small toothbrush specially designed to clean the interdental spaces. It is designed to clean the areas and spaces between the teeth that a normal toothbrush cannot reach. These areas are especially predestined for deposits of food residues and bacteria.
These places cannot be reached by normal tooth brushing. Plaque is formed, which can lead to tartar, caries or gum inflammation. These protected spaces between two teeth are called interdental spaces. An interdental brush is a supplement to daily oral hygiene. The two typical shapes are on the one hand the cylindrical shape of a bottle brush and on the other hand the (conical) shape of a fir tree.
Who benefits from an interdental brush?
In general, one’s own oral hygiene benefits greatly when using interdental brushes. The additional daily cleaning of the interdental spaces can prevent plaque, caries, inflammation of the oral cavity or even bad breath. As a result, expensive dental treatments for restorations can be prevented.
Basically, almost everyone can benefit from the use of interdental brushes. Even in areas where flossing cannot get between the teeth, the teeth are usually not as close to the gums. This is where the interdental brush can easily be passed through. It should fit through the space between the teeth with moderate pressure, but also with noticeable resistance.
Which manufacturers are there?
As with many dental products, there are different manufacturers of interdental brushes. The market leaders include Curaprox and Tepe. However, every drugstore also offers its own, more economical brand. There are also many different suppliers of interdental brushes, including Elmex or Oral B. Curaprox, on the other hand, is only available in pharmacies, while Tepe can be found in every drugstore. In general, everyone has to find out individually which brushes are best suited to their needs.
Which manufacturer do we recommend?
It is generally very difficult to recommend one manufacturer as the best. The choice of interdental brushes is individual and depends on the patient’s preference and handling. In general, clinics and many dentists recommend Curaprox interdental brushes with a long handle.
This makes it easier for many patients to use the brushes. However, many patients also like to use the interdental brushes from Tepe. These are available in every drugstore, are cheaper than Curaprox and have a short handy shaft. The recommendation for the brushes depends on the motor skills and preference of each individual.
