LIFESTYLE NEWS - Brushing only cleans about 60% of tooth surfaces. The remaining 40% – the spaces between teeth – is where plaque builds up, gum disease begins and risks to overall health increase.
September is National Oral Health Month and experts warn that oral health is about more than just teeth.
Gum disease is now linked to more than 50 systemic conditions including heart disease, diabetes, poor pregnancy outcomes, pancreatic cancer and even depression.
A small step with big benefits
Plaque often accumulates in the tight spaces between teeth, leading to cavities and gum disease. To raise awareness, GUM and Ivohealth are working with dental professionals across South Africa to highlight the importance of cleaning between the teeth every day.
“Cleaning in-between remains one of the hardest things for patients to do – yet it is one of the most important,” says Dirna Grobbelaar, Oral Hygiene Advisor at Ivohealth.
“New plaque is soft and easy to remove. Leave it for a day or two and it turns into a sticky layer that’s much harder to shift. That’s why a small daily habit can have a big impact – it only takes 30 to 60 seconds.”
Getting started
- Tight gaps: GUM Expanding Floss – ultra-thin on insertion, expands for greater cleaning
- Dexterity issues: GUM Bi-Direction interdental brush – long handle and bendable head for easy reach
- Braces, bridges or implants: GUM Ortho/Access Floss or GUM Trav-Ler interdental brushes
- Food traps: Interdental brushes or GUM Soft-Picks
Oral hygienists can guide you on what works best. Alternatively, the quick online quiz Find Your GUM Match helps identify the right option.
Why it matters
- Brushing misses many areas: it only cleans about 60% of tooth surfaces.
- Most South Africans skip it: only a third clean between their teeth daily, and many use the wrong technique
- Healthier gums mean fewer lost teeth: research shows consistent interdental cleaning significantly reduces tooth loss
Gum disease is linked to more than 50 conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory illness and cognitive decline
Poor oral health can also increase the risk and severity of depression
Oral disease affects 3.5 billion people worldwide, making gum disease the second most common oral condition after cavities
For a healthy mouth and body, make interdental cleaning part of your daily routine. Consult your oral hygienist to find the best tool for you or try the Find Your GUM Match quiz.
For more advice, visit Ivohealth’s Expert Guide to Interdental Care.
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