Effective interdental hygiene : Your online pharmacy selection

What is interdental hygiene and why is it important?

Interdental hygiene refers to the specific care taken to clean the spaces between teeth, an area often neglected during daily brushing. This practice is crucial, as it removes plaque and food debris inaccessible with a conventional toothbrush. Good interdental hygiene prevents gum disease, tooth decay and halitosis (bad breath), helping to maintain a healthy mouth and overall health.

What tools are recommended for effective interdental hygiene?

Several tools can be used to improveinterdental hygiene:

1. Dental floss: Ideal for removing particles and plaque between teeth. It is particularly effective when used regularly, ideally once a day.
2. Interdental brushes: These small brushes are perfect for cleaning the wider spaces between teeth. They are available in different sizes to suit different interdental spaces.
3. Hydropulper: Using a pressurized water jet, the hydropulper removes plaque and food residues without irritating the gums. This tool is often recommended for people with braces.

How do I use dental floss correctly?

For effective flossing, follow these steps:

1. Take about 45 centimetres of floss and wrap most of it around each of your middle fingers.
2. Stretch a small segment between your fingers and gently slide the floss into the space between two teeth.
3. Bend the wire against a tooth to form a 'C', then slide it gently into the space below the gum line.
4. Use a clean segment of floss for each tooth space to prevent the transfer of bacteria.

What are the oral health benefits of good interdental hygiene?

The benefits of meticulous interdental hygiene include:

• Preventing gingivitis: by removing plaque, you reduce the risk of gum inflammation and bleeding.
• Reduced risk of cavities: cleaning between teeth removes food debris that can contribute to the formation of cavities.
• Improved halitosis: a clean mouth is less likely to develop bad breath.

How can you integrate interdental hygiene into your daily routine?

To effectively integrateinterdental hygiene into your routine, consider the following tips:

1. Choose the right time: Many find it helpful to clean between their teeth just before bedtime to minimize plaque and bacteria accumulated during the day.
2. Make it habitual: Make interdental cleaning part of your brushing routine to make it as natural as brushing your teeth.
3. Be gentle: It's crucial to use a gentle technique to avoid injuring the gums, which could lead to gum recession or infection.

How often should interdental hygiene tools be used?

We recommend usinginterdental hygiene tools at least once a day, preferably in the evening before bedtime. This frequency helps minimize the build-up of plaque and food debris that can occur throughout the day. Regular use is essential to prevent periodontal disease and maintain fresh breath.

Can I use interdental brushes if I have sensitive gums?

Yes, people with sensitive gums can use interdental brushes, but it's crucial to choose the right model and size. There are brushes specially designed for sensitive gums, with softer bristles. It's also important to use a gentle technique to avoid further irritation of the gums. If you experience persistent pain or bleeding, consult your dentist for personalized advice.

How do I choose the right interdental brush size?

Selecting the right size interdental brush is crucial to effective cleaning. Brushes come in a variety of diameters to accommodate different tooth spacing. It is generally advisable to start with the smallest size and increase as space permits. A brush should pass easily between the teeth without being too tight, yet be large enough to clean the tooth walls effectively.

What alternatives are there to dental floss for braces?

For wearers of orthodontic appliances, interdental cleaning can be a challenge. Alternatives such as special dental floss with a rigid tip or hydropulps are particularly suitable. The hydropulper uses a jet of water to clean effectively around brackets and under wires, without risking damage to the appliance. These methods can be more convenient and just as effective at removing plaque and food debris.

What are the risks of neglecting interdental hygiene?

Neglectinginterdental hygiene can lead to a number of oral health problems, including:

• Gingivitis: inflammation and bleeding of the gums caused by plaque build-up.
• Periodontitis: a more serious form of gum disease that can damage the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth.
• Interdental caries: the formation of cavities in the spaces between teeth where the toothbrush cannot reach.
• Bad breath: accumulation of bacteria and food debris can lead to persistent halitosis.

A commitment to complete interdental hygiene is crucial to avoiding these complications and maintaining a healthy mouth.