Interdental Brushes
Interdental or proxy brushes help clean accessible spaces around brackets, beneath wires, and between teeth where there is enough room.
What You Need
An interdental brush of a suitable size. GUM and other brands offer different sizes; comfortable fit matters more than brand.
Video demonstration — to be added
How to Use an Interdental Brush
Ask your dental team to demonstrate the appropriate size. It should fit without force.
Gently guide the brush beneath the orthodontic wire and clean beside each bracket.
Where space allows between teeth, guide it through near the gumline with controlled in-and-out movements.
Never force it into a tight contact or use it to push, bend, or lever the wire.
Rinse the brush during use and clean it according to its instructions.
Replace brushes with worn bristles or damaged stems.
Continue toothbrushing and use a suitable method for tight tooth contacts that the brush cannot enter.
Common Mistakes
Using a brush that is too large
Forcing it between teeth
Cleaning only easy front-tooth areas
When to Seek Advice
Ask for help if the brush repeatedly catches, causes pain, or persistent bleeding occurs. Do not stop all cleaning because gums bleed; arrange advice about the cause and technique.