1 Church Street, Wyong NSW 2259 
Church St Dental Blog – The Benefits of Using Interdental Brushes
Brushing twice a day is essential, but even the best toothbrush can’t always reach every part of your mouth. That’s where interdental cleaning tools, like Piksters or other interdental brushes, come in. At Church St Dental, we encourage our patients to “take your Pik!”, a fun reminder that keeping your teeth clean between meals is just as important as brushing.
Why Regular Brushing Isn’t Enough
Many people are surprised to learn that brushing alone cleans only about 60% of tooth surfaces. The spaces between your teeth, called interdental areas, often trap plaque and food particles that can lead to gum disease, cavities, and bad breath.
Traditional dental floss is effective, but not everyone finds it easy or comfortable to use. That’s why interdental brushes, like Piksters, are a great alternative. They’re small, convenient, and designed to remove debris from between teeth and around dental work such as bridges, braces, or crowns.
What Are Interdental Brushes?
Interdental brushes are tiny, cone-shaped cleaning tools that fit between your teeth. They have soft bristles attached to a flexible wire, allowing you to gently glide them in and out of the gaps between teeth. They come in various sizes to suit different spaces, from tight gaps to larger areas between molars.
Using interdental brushes helps remove plaque more effectively than brushing alone. They also stimulate the gums, improving circulation and supporting overall gum health.
How to Use Piksters Correctly
Learning to use interdental brushes properly is easy. Here’s a quick guide to getting started:
- Choose the right size – Your dentist or hygienist can help select the best size for your teeth. You may need different sizes for different areas of your mouth.
- Insert gently – Never force the brush into a gap. If it feels too tight, use a smaller size.
- Move in and out – Slide the brush back and forth a few times to remove plaque and food particles.
- Rinse and replace – Rinse your Pikster after each use and replace it when the bristles begin to wear out.
It only takes a few minutes each day and can make a big difference to your oral hygiene and gum health.
Why Piksters Are So Popular
Piksters are one of the most recognised interdental brush brands in Australia, known for their quality and effectiveness. They’re designed to be easy to hold, long-lasting, and available in multiple sizes. For people who find flossing fiddly or uncomfortable, Piksters offer a simpler and more efficient way to clean between teeth.
Other benefits include:
- Easier access to hard-to-reach areas.
- Reduced risk of gum inflammation.
- Gentle on dental restorations and orthodontic appliances.
- Convenient travel-friendly packs.
At Church St Dental, we often recommend Piksters to patients who want a practical and reliable alternative to flossing.
The Importance of Interdental Cleaning
Neglecting the spaces between teeth is one of the most common causes of gum disease. Plaque left in these areas hardens into tartar, leading to inflammation, bleeding, and even bone loss over time. Regular interdental cleaning helps remove this build-up, reducing the risk of periodontal disease and protecting your teeth’s supporting structures.
Even if your gums bleed slightly when you start using interdental brushes, don’t stop; that’s often a sign of inflammation that will improve as your gums become healthier. Consistency is key to seeing results.
How Often Should You Use Piksters?
For best results, use your Piksters or interdental brushes once a day, ideally in the evening before brushing. This ensures that plaque and trapped food particles are removed before bacteria have a chance to multiply overnight.
Some patients with braces or bridgework may need to clean more frequently, depending on their dentist’s advice. Regular use, combined with professional dental cleanings, can keep your smile healthy and fresh year-round.
Church St Dental’s Approach to Preventive Care
At Church St Dental, we believe prevention is always better than a cure. That’s why our team spends time educating patients on effective at-home care routines, including proper brushing, flossing, and interdental cleaning techniques.
During your regular check-up, our hygienists can demonstrate the correct way to use Piksters and help you find the right size and technique. We aim to make oral hygiene simple, effective, and easy to maintain for the whole family.
Why It Matters
Good oral hygiene isn’t just about avoiding cavities; it’s about protecting your gums, preventing disease, and maintaining a confident smile. Interdental brushes like Piksters are small tools that make a big difference. By using them daily, you’re taking an active step towards long-term oral health.
Taking your “Pik” isn’t just a slogan; it’s a reminder that healthy habits start with small, consistent actions. With the right tools and guidance, maintaining a clean and healthy smile becomes effortless.
Book an Appointment
If you’d like advice on which interdental brushes are right for you, visit the team at Church St Dental. We can help you choose the right size, demonstrate the correct technique, and ensure your oral hygiene routine is as effective as possible.
Call our Wyong clinic or visit our website to book your next dental check-up. Let’s keep your smile clean, fresh, and healthy, one Pik at a time.
FAQs – Take Your Pik!
- What are Piksters used for?
They’re small interdental brushes used to clean between teeth where regular toothbrushes can’t reach. - Are Piksters better than flossing?
For many people, Piksters are easier to use and just as effective at removing plaque and debris. - How often should I use Piksters?
Once daily, ideally before brushing at night, to maintain optimal gum and tooth health. - Can children use Piksters?
Yes, older children and teens can use them under supervision once their adult teeth have developed. - Do Piksters hurt when you start using them?
Slight bleeding or tenderness at first is common, but this usually stops as gum health improves. - How long do Piksters last?
Each brush can be reused several times, but should be replaced once the bristles become worn. - Can Piksters be used with braces or dental work?
Yes. They’re ideal for cleaning around orthodontic wires, implants, and bridges. - Where can I buy Piksters?
They’re available at pharmacies, supermarkets, and through dental clinics like Church St Dental.
