You’re brushing twice a day, follow all the standard advice, and still get plaque or cavities. What could you be missing? The answer lies in the spaces your toothbrush can’t reach. As stated by the Academy of General Dentistry, cleaning between your teeth—which is called interproximal cleaning—is not just an optional extra; it’s a vital component of any effective oral hygiene routine.
Understanding Interproximal Cleaning
Interproximal cleaning is the practice of removing plaque and food particles from the gaps in your smile 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 makes up 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 result in several preventable issues:
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Interproximal Cavities: These are cavities that form on the sides of your teeth. They can be hard to spot without dental X-rays and can damage two teeth at once.
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Gum Problems and Disease: Plaque buildup at the gumline causes gum irritation, causing inflammation (gingivitis). Without treatment, it can develop into 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.
Finding the Right Tool for the Job
While traditional string floss is the most well-known tool, it’s not the only option. Depending on your needs, dexterity, and dental work (like braces or bridges), other tools might be more effective:
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Water Flossers: Employ a pressurized stream of water to remove particles.
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Interdental Brushes: Tiny, specialized brushes to clean larger gaps.
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Dental Picks: Easy-to-use instruments for on-the-go cleaning.
Achieve Total Oral Health in Westfield, NJ
Understanding the “why” is the first step, but mastering the “how” is just as important. At our clinic, Dr. Aristo Carranza is committed to helping patients with the skills and information for a truly complete clean. We can demonstrate the proper methods and help you choose the best interproximal cleaning tools for your individual needs.
Don’t allow hidden plaque to damage your smile. Improve your hygiene habits from good to great. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Aristo Carranza, call or send a WhatsApp message to (908) 444-3200. Our office is conveniently located at 301 Lenox Avenue, Westfield, NJ 07090.
