Brushing cleans the front, back and top of your teeth—but not the tight spaces between them. That’s where food and plaque quietly sit and cause cavities and gum problems.
Traditional floss is a thin thread that you gently slide between teeth, curve around each tooth in a “C” shape, and move up and down. It’s cheap and effective if you’re willing to learn the technique and do it regularly.
Interdental brushes are tiny brushes designed to clean bigger gaps, especially if you have spaces, gum recession, or braces. They come in different sizes; your dentist can suggest which fits your gaps without forcing.
Water flossers use a small jet of water to flush out food and plaque from between teeth and around gums. They’re especially helpful for people with braces, bridges, or difficulty handling thread floss.
You don’t have to use everything. Pick what fits your mouth and routine. The important thing is: once a day, some form of interdental cleaning.
Start gently; gums may bleed a little if you’ve never cleaned between teeth before. With regular care and proper technique, bleeding usually reduces as gum health improves. If it doesn’t, get the area checked.