Toothbrushing & Cleaning Tools

What are interdental brushes and who needs them?

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Short answer

Interdental brushes are small, brush-tipped tools designed to clean between teeth, particularly useful for people with larger gaps, braces, or bridge work where regular floss doesn't reach as effectively. They're often recommended alongside, not instead of, regular brushing and flossing.

About this answer: Prepared by the AllSmiles Dental Editorial Team for general information. Your dentist can advise you based on an examination and your individual needs.

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Should I use a water flosser instead of regular floss?

A water flosser can be a helpful alternative for people who struggle with string floss, such as those with braces or limited dexterity, and it does a good job of flushing out debris. However, it's not universally proven to be as effective at physically disrupting plaque along the gumline as traditional flossing, so many dentists recommend it as a supplement rather than a full replacement.

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How often should a toothbrush be replaced?

A toothbrush or electric brush head should generally be replaced every three months, or sooner if the bristles start fraying, since worn bristles clean far less effectively. It should also be replaced after a cold or illness to avoid reintroducing bacteria.

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