Proxabrushes
Proxabrushes are also known as, go-betweens, interdental or interproximal brushes, and even referred to as Christmas tree brushes. They look like pipe cleaners, with soft nylon bristles anchored into a center metal pipe. These bendable brush heads are attached to plastic handles. The shorter brushes are one unit. The long handle is accessorized with replacement heads that attach to the end of it.
The GUM brand has an antibacterial coating on the bristles to help keep the brush clean and hygienic.
The GUM brand has an antibacterial coating on the bristles to help keep the brush clean and hygienic.
Proxabrushes come in a range of sizes from
Ultra-tight
Tight
Moderate
Wide
They also come in a variety of shapes: thin, cone, Christmas tree or triangular, tapered and cylindrical.
These brushes purpose in life are to clean under bridges, crowns, braces, and small to large gaps between teeth and areas of food traps. Proxabrushes are not highly recommended for implants, due to the metal center able to scratch the implant. Bacteria can imbed in the scratched titanium implant and increase the chance of an infection, which increases the chance for implant failure. But if used around implants, be aware and gentle.
These brushes purpose in life are to clean under bridges, crowns, braces, and small to large gaps between teeth and areas of food traps. Proxabrushes are not highly recommended for implants, due to the metal center able to scratch the implant. Bacteria can imbed in the scratched titanium implant and increase the chance of an infection, which increases the chance for implant failure. But if used around implants, be aware and gentle.
Using Proxabrushes
- Gently push into the area needing cleaned
- Slowly and gently move in and out to rub on the tooth to clean the side of it and to push any plaque or food out
- Rinse if noticeable debris is present
- For an added anti-bacterial perk, dip the proxabrush in mouthwash for more of a benefit