Toothbrushing is an important self-care method for removing plaque, smegma, and food residue, while maintaining oral hygiene. The purpose of brushing teeth is to remove plaque, soft dirt, and food debris from the tooth surface and interdental space, reduce oral bacteria and other harmful substances, reduce the accumulation of plaque, and prevent the formation of tartar. However, the general brushing method can only remove plaque on the cheek, tongue, and bite surfaces, accounting for about 40% to 60% of the plaque; Dental spaces are prone to retention of plaque and soft plaque; When brushing teeth, the bristles are difficult to enter the adjacent space or cannot fully penetrate into the interdental space, and other measures need to be taken to remove adjacent plaque. Common methods include flossing, interdental brushes, and dental flossers.
Dental floss is composed of multiple strands of fine nylon thread, which can also be replaced by fine thread or polyester thread. Dental floss is very effective in removing plaque on the adjacent surfaces of teeth, especially suitable for interdental spaces where there is no significant recession of the interdental papilla.
The head of an interdental brush is usually made of metal wire or hard plastic, with soft bristles attached around it. It is suitable for adjacent surfaces with wider interdental gaps, exposed root bifurcations, and misaligned tooth arrangements. Mainly used to remove adjacent plaque that is difficult to brush with teeth.
A dental irrigator pressurizes water through a pump body, producing a linear or spiral high-pressure water column that washes through many parts of the oral cavity. It can assist in removing soft dirt and food residue in the interdental space, including difficult to reach gaps between teeth and deep gums with toothbrushes and floss.
The usage and precautions of dental floss, interdental brush, and flosser were introduced through video deduction. It is easier for the general public to learn how to use interdental cleaning tools, maintain daily oral hygiene, and use knowledge to protect teeth and gums.