Small Habits, Big Impact – Why Interdental Cleaning Matters

Sep 22
2 min read

Updated: Sep 26

How Interdental Cleaning Protects the 40% You’re Missing

PUBLISHED: 22 September 2025 | 2 MINUTE READ

*Brushing only cleans 60% of tooth surfaces*

Most of us brush twice a day and feel pretty good about it. But brushing only cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces. The other 40%—the spaces in-between—is where plaque builds up, gum disease begins, and risks to your whole-body health increase. That’s why interdental cleaning is essential: it reaches where brushing can’t.

Why Brushing Isn’t Enough

Your toothbrush can handle the fronts, backs, and tops of your teeth. But the tight gaps in-between? That’s where trouble starts:

Plaque builds up first.
Cavities and gum disease often begin here.
Neglecting these spaces increases risk for systemic health problems.

👉 Research confirms brushing alone leaves nearly half your teeth unprotected.

“Brushing alone leaves nearly half your teeth at risk.”

A Small Habit With a Big Impact

Cleaning in between only takes 30–60 seconds a day, but the benefits can last a lifetime. New plaque is soft and easy to remove. Leave it for a couple of days, and it turns into a sticky biofilm—the starting point for cavities, gum disease, and inflammation.

Pull Quote: “Healthy gums aren’t just good for your smile—they’re good for your whole body.”

Tools That Make It Easy

The best interdental option is the one you’ll actually use. Here are some choices:

Floss – great for tight gaps.
Interdental brushes – ideal for bigger spaces, braces, or implants.
Water flossers – simple for people with dexterity issues.
Soft-picks – comfortable for food traps and sensitive gums.

Beyond Your Mouth

Gum disease doesn’t stop at your smile. It’s linked to over 50 systemic health conditions, including:

Heart disease
Diabetes complications
Respiratory issues
Pregnancy complications
Even depression and cognitive decline

This is why cleaning between your teeth is about more than fresh breath—it’s a whole-body health habit.

The Bottom Line

Brushing is essential, but it’s only part of the picture. To protect your teeth, gums, and overall health, don’t stop at 60%. Take a minute each day to clean in-between—because that hidden 40% is where health truly begins.

This Oral Health Month, choose to add one small habit that can change your health for the better.