If you ask any dental hygienist what they use on their own teeth, you often get the same answer: interdental brushes, not string floss. The evidence backs this up for most adults.
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What the research shows
Multiple systematic reviews find interdental brushes equal or superior to floss for plaque removal at proximal tooth surfaces in adults with adequate space. Bleeding indices improve faster. Patient compliance is dramatically higher.
When floss still wins
Very tight contacts in younger adults. Around fixed orthodontic appliances. Below the gum line for early periodontitis (though water flossers often better).
How to size them
They come in 7-10 sizes from 0.4 mm to 1.5 mm. Most adults need 2-3 sizes. A hygienist can size you in one visit. Too small = useless, too large = damaging.
How to use correctly
Insert gently. Slide back and forth a few times — not aggressive. Brush should contact tooth surfaces. Use at gum line angle.
Brands
TePe is the standard reference. Curaprox makes thinner handles. Generic store brands work if sizing matches. Cost: £4-8/month.
FAQ
Should I use both?
Generally one is enough. Pick whichever you will actually use daily.
How long does cleaning take?
2-3 minutes. Often faster than flossing.
My gums bleed when I start. Should I stop?
No — bleeding typically indicates gingivitis. Continue gentle daily use.
Can I reuse?
Yes — rinse after use, reuse for 1-2 weeks. Replace when bristles bend permanently.
Related reading: Top 5 oral supplements compared · GumAktiv review
The Evidence: Interdental Brushes vs Floss
Multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses have compared interdental brushes to traditional string floss. The findings are consistent: interdental brushes are at least as effective as floss for plaque removal, and in many studies they are significantly more effective — particularly in patients with existing gum disease or wider interdental spaces.
A Cochrane review of interdental cleaning devices found that interdental brushes reduced gingivitis (gum inflammation) more effectively than floss in most of the studies analyzed. The mechanical action of the brush bristles cleans a larger surface area than the linear contact of string floss.
The practical advantage is equally important: compliance. Studies consistently show that patients use interdental brushes more consistently than floss because they are easier and faster to use. A cleaning method that gets used daily beats a superior method that gets used once a week.
When Floss Is Still Better
Interdental brushes cannot fit between very tight contacts — typically the front teeth in younger adults with no gum recession. In these spaces, string floss or floss picks remain the only option. For most adults over 30, especially those with any degree of gum recession, interdental brushes fit comfortably and clean more effectively.
Choosing the Right Size
Interdental brushes come in sizes from 0.4mm (pink/ISO 0) to 1.5mm (black/ISO 8). Using the wrong size reduces effectiveness:
- Too small: passes through without contacting the tooth surfaces — minimal cleaning
- Too large: cannot enter the space or causes discomfort
- Correct: fits snugly with slight resistance and contacts both adjacent tooth surfaces
Most people need 2-3 different sizes because interdental spaces vary throughout the mouth. Your dentist or hygienist can recommend starting sizes.
How to Use Interdental Brushes
- Insert the brush gently into the interdental space — do not force it
- Move it back and forth 2-3 times with gentle pressure
- Rinse the brush between spaces
- Replace the brush when bristles are worn (typically every 1-2 weeks)
- Use once daily, ideally before brushing at bedtime
Water Flossers: A Third Option
Water flossers (like Waterpik) use a pressurized water stream to clean between teeth. They are particularly useful for people with braces, implants, or dexterity issues. The evidence for plaque removal is comparable to string floss, though some studies suggest they are better at reducing bleeding. They do not replace mechanical cleaning entirely — combining a water flosser with interdental brushes provides the most thorough cleaning.
Our Recommendation
For most adults: interdental brushes as the primary interdental cleaner, supplemented by string floss for tight contacts that brushes cannot reach. This combination provides the most thorough cleaning with the highest compliance rate.
Whatever method you choose, doing it consistently matters more than which tool you use. Daily interdental cleaning of any kind reduces gum disease risk significantly compared to brushing alone.
For supporting gum health alongside good hygiene, oral probiotics like GumAktiv can provide an additional layer of microbial support.
FAQ
Are interdental brushes better than floss?
For most adults, yes. Published research shows they remove more plaque and reduce gum inflammation more effectively than string floss. They are also easier to use consistently.
Can interdental brushes damage gums?
Not when used correctly with the right size. Using a brush that is too large for the space can cause temporary discomfort. Start with a smaller size and work up.
How often should I use interdental brushes?
Once daily, ideally before brushing at bedtime. This removes the plaque buildup from the day before your toothbrush and toothpaste can work on clean surfaces.
Do I still need to floss if I use interdental brushes?
Only for very tight spaces where the smallest interdental brush cannot fit — typically between the front teeth. For most other spaces, interdental brushes are sufficient.
What is the best interdental brush brand?
TePe and GUM are the most widely recommended by dental professionals. Both offer full size ranges and good quality bristles. The brand matters less than using the correct size consistently.
