Interdental cleaning or interproximal cleaning is part of oral hygiene where the aim is to clean the areas in between the teeth, otherwise known as the proximal surfaces of teeth. This is to remove the dental plaque in areas where a toothbrush cannot reach. The ultimategoal of interproximal cleaning is to prevent the development of interproximal caries and periodontal disease. The combined use of tooth brushing, and mechanical and manual interdental cleaning devices has been proven to reduce the prevalence of caries and periodontal diseases.
Floss
Floss is one of the most commonly used interdental cleaners. It is traditionally made of waxed nylon wrapped up in a plastic box. Since dental floss is able to remove some inter-proximal plaque, frequent regulardental flossing will reduce inter-proximal caries and periodontal disease risks. For patients lacking dexterity or compliance, floss holders or floss picks can be used as an alternative.
Interdental brushes commonly consist of a central metal wire core with soft nylon filaments twisted around and are available in various sizes to correspond to different spaces between teeth. Certain factors such as material, geometry and size of the brush can be chosen to optimize the efficiency and effectiveness:
Material: metal wire may be sensitive to certain patients thereby rubber might be preferred.
Geometry: Straight interdental brushes are considered more effective compared to angled interproximal plaque removal.
Size: This varies depending on the space between individual teeth. Failure to use an appropriate size may account for the lack of efficiency of interdental cleaning aid.
Oral Irrigators
Oral Irrigators are common mechanical tools used for interdental cleaning. It uses a combination of pulsation and pressure facilitated by water or air to remove debris and bacteria both above and below the gums. When used with tooth brushing, the use of oral irrigators reduces inflammation of the gums by removing loosely adherent plaque. It is also beneficial for implant maintenance as there is less bleeding around implants when oral irrigators are used compared to dental floss.
