You brush your teeth religiously, do everything you’re supposed to, and still find yourself dealing with plaque or cavities. What’s the missing piece? The solution lies in the spaces your toothbrush can’t reach. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, interproximal cleaning—which is called interproximal cleaning—is not just an optional extra; it’s a vital component of any successful oral hygiene routine.
What Is Interproximal Cleaning?
Interproximal cleaning is the practice of clearing out 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 simply cannot 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.
Risks of Skipping In-Between Cleaning
When plaque is left to build up between teeth, it can result in several avoidable problems:
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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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Gingivitis and Gum Disease: Plaque buildup at the gumline causes gum irritation, causing inflammation (gingivitis). If left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss.
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Bad Breath (Halitosis): Trapped food particles and bacteria are a major reason for of halitosis.
Choosing the Best Cleaning Tool
Although string floss is the most common option, it’s not the only choice. 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 flush out debris.
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Interdental Brushes: Small, specially designed brushes to clean between wider-spaced teeth.
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Dental Picks: Simple, effective tools for on-the-go cleaning.
Achieve Total Oral Health in Westfield, NJ
Knowing why is important, but learning the technique is just as critical. At our clinic, Dr. Aristo Carranza is committed to helping patients with the knowledge and techniques for a 100% clean mouth. We can show you the right way and help you choose the best interproximal cleaning tools for your unique smile.
Don’t let what you can’t see 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 located at 301 Lenox Avenue, Westfield, NJ 07090.
