Interdental Brushes vs Floss: Which Is Better for Your Teeth?

Interdental brushes or floss? It’s a question you may have asked yourself while standing in the dental aisle, wondering which is actually better for your teeth.

You know you should be cleaning between your teeth every day, but with so many options, it’s easy to feel unsure about where to start.

Depending on your teeth, your gums, and how easy you find it to keep up with your routine, one might suit you far better than the other.

Around 30% of UK adults turn to dental floss for cleaning between their teeth, compared to 21% who use interdental brushes.

However, popularity doesn't necessarily mean that floss is more effective...

Why is cleaning between the teeth important?

Brushing alone just doesn't cut it. Your toothbrush can only reach around 60% of tooth surfaces, leaving behind food particles and plaque in those tight spaces between your teeth. 

And that’s exactly where gum disease and tooth decay love to start.

Interdental cleaning is important for preventing inflamed gums, bleeding, bad breath, and long-term problems like bone loss and tooth mobility. 

So, if you're skipping this step, you’re potentially leaving your oral health vulnerable.

What are interdental brushes?

Interdental brushes look like tiny bottle brushes and are designed to slide between your teeth, sweeping away plaque and debris that brushing misses.

They come in various sizes (measured in mm), and most people need a few different ones for different areas of the mouth.

Interdental brushes are especially good for:

• People with slightly wider gaps between their teeth
• Anyone wearing braces, bridges or implants
• Patients with early gum disease (gingivitis) or gum recession

• People who find flossing fiddly or painful

What about dental floss?

Dental floss is a waxed or unwaxed thread that’s worked between tight contacts to clean the sides of teeth.

It’s useful if your teeth are very close together and you can’t fit an interdental brush in without forcing it.

Floss is the go-to option for the majority of people. But here’s the issue: most people don’t floss properly, and even fewer do it regularly.

Unless you’re very confident with your flossing skills and doing it every day, it might not be as effective as you think.

So, which one should you use?

The best option really depends on your mouth and your motivation.

If you have tight teeth and find that brushes just don’t fit, floss may be the better option. However, it has to be done thoroughly and daily to make a real difference.

If you’re not confident with your technique, ask your dentist or hygienist to show you the proper method during your next visit.

On the other hand, if you’ve got a bit more space between your teeth or you’re dealing with gum concerns, interdental brushes are often the easier and more effective choice.

They’re quicker to use, gentler on the gums when used correctly, and tend to remove more plaque with less effort (especially for those who struggle to keep up with flossing).

The European Federation of Periodontology goes as far as saying that interdental brushes should be the first choice for most adults—particularly those with gum concerns.

However, many people actually benefit from using a mix of both. Floss for the tighter spots, brushes for everywhere else.

The bottom line

Cleaning between your teeth is just as important as brushing, and whether you use floss, brushes, or a combination of the two, what matters most is that you’re doing it consistently and correctly.

If you’re unsure which option is right for you, have a chat with your dentist or hygienist.

They can help you find the right tools and technique for your individual needs, making sure your interdental routine actually works for you.

Your gums will thank you for it.

If you're looking for more ways to support your oral health at home, take a look at our range of trusted products to help you care for your teeth and gums with confidence.