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An interdental brush fits one space but not the next
How do you decide where an interdental brush is the right size and where floss makes more sense? The spaces between teeth aren’t always uniform: a brush might move comfortably through a wider gap but feel like it has to be forced between tighter teeth. I’d be concerned about irritating the gums if the brush is too large or pushed too hard, but I’m not sure what signs reliably indicate a poor fit.
Does your dentist or hygienist recommend different tools for different spaces, and can they check the brush size and technique at a cleaning?
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1 reply
A brush can feel snug without being too large: the bristles may meet gentle resistance, but you shouldn’t need to force it or bend the wire. If it hurts going in, the wire bends, or that spot repeatedly bleeds, don’t keep pushing; use floss there and ask your dentist or hygienist to check the fit.