You brush your teeth twice a day, follow all the standard advice, and still end up with plaque or cavities. What could you be missing? The answer lies in the spaces your toothbrush misses. As stated by the Academy of General Dentistry, interproximal cleaning—which is called interproximal cleaning—isn’t just a bonus step; it’s a critical component of any successful oral hygiene routine.
Understanding Interproximal Cleaning
Interproximal cleaning is the method of clearing out plaque and food particles from between your teeth and just below the gumline. While your toothbrush excels at cleaning the front, back, and chewing surfaces, it is unable to clean the tight spaces where two teeth meet. This accounts for roughly 35% of each tooth’s surface area, a huge area to leave uncleaned.
The Dangers of Neglecting the Gaps
When plaque is allowed to accumulate between teeth, it can lead to several preventable issues:
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Interproximal Cavities: These are cavities that form on the sides of your teeth. They can be difficult to detect without dental X-rays and can affect two adjacent teeth.
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Gum Problems and Disease: Plaque accumulation at the gumline causes gum irritation, which leads to gingivitis. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more serious stage of gum disease that can result in losing teeth.
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Bad Breath (Halitosis): Trapped food particles and bacteria are a primary cause of persistent bad breath.
Choosing the Best Cleaning Tool
While traditional string floss is the most well-known tool, it’s not the only option. Depending on your needs, dexterity, and restorations (like braces or bridges), other tools could work better:
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Water Flossers: Employ a pressurized stream of water to flush out debris.
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Interdental Brushes: Tiny, specialized brushes to clean larger gaps.
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Dental Picks: Simple, effective tools for quick cleaning.
Achieve Total Oral Health in Westfield, NJ
Knowing why is important, but learning the technique is just as important. Here, Dr. Aristo Carranza is committed to helping patients with the knowledge and techniques for a 100% clean mouth. We can demonstrate the proper methods and help you choose the best interproximal cleaning tools for your unique smile.
Don’t allow hidden plaque to damage your smile. Elevate your daily routine from good to great. To book an appointment with Dr. Aristo Carranza, contact us at (908) 444-3200. Our office is located at 301 Lenox Avenue, Westfield, NJ 07090.
