Comparison
Water flosser vs interdental brushes
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In short
Interdental brushes are small bristle brushes sized to fit each gap, and NHS guidance names them as a way to clean between teeth. A water flosser rinses gaps and the gumline with a pulsing jet and suits people who struggle with small brushes or have braces or bridges. Many people use interdental brushes for the gaps they fit and a water flosser for the rest. Ask your hygienist which sizes and method suit you.
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Our verdict
Use interdental brushes if your hygienist has sized them and they fit your gaps comfortably. Choose a water flosser if gaps are very tight, you have braces or dental work, or small brushes are hard to handle, and check with your dental team first.
Interdental brushes have become the tool many dental hygienists hand out for cleaning between teeth. Water flossers offer a different approach, using water instead of bristles. Both are easier than string floss for many people, so it is natural to wonder which to choose. This comparison explains how each works, why sizing matters so much for interdental brushes, how pressure settings work on a flosser, and what each costs to keep going in terms of what you buy. It also makes clear where advice from your dental team should decide things.
How interdental brushes work
An interdental brush is a tiny bristle brush on a thin wire core. You push it gently into the gap between two teeth at the gumline and move it in and out a few times. The bristles touch the sides of both teeth.
The key is size. Gaps vary across your mouth, so many people need two or three sizes. A brush that is too small does little; one that is too big will not go in or may hurt. A dentist or hygienist can measure and recommend sizes, which are usually colour coded by brand.
How a water flosser works
A water flosser pumps water through a narrow tip in rapid pulses. You trace the gumline and pause at each gap. Most models have a pressure dial, so you can start low and build up. Specialist tips are sold for braces, implants and pockets around teeth.
Because the water reaches any gap, there is no sizing to worry about. The trade-off is that it rinses rather than brushes, needs a sink and either mains power or charging, and can splash while you learn.
Side by side
Ongoing costs are shown as what you need to buy, because prices vary between brands and pack sizes.
| Interdental brushes | Water flosser | |
|---|---|---|
| NHS guidance | Named as a way to clean between teeth | Not specifically covered |
| Fit | Must be sized to each gap | One tip suits all gaps |
| Adjustability | Change brush size | Pressure dial, often several settings |
| Tight gaps | May not fit very tight gaps | Water reaches tight gaps |
| Portability | Pocket sized | Countertop or cordless unit |
| Ongoing purchases | New brushes often, as each wears out | Replacement tips every few months |
Ongoing purchases over a year
Interdental brushes wear out. Many makers suggest replacing a brush once the bristles flatten or the wire bends, which can mean a new brush every few days to a week. If you need several sizes, that adds up to a steady supply of packs through the year.
A water flosser costs more at the start. After that, you mainly replace tips, which makers usually suggest every few months, and you may use white vinegar or a cleaning tablet for descaling in hard water areas. Electricity use is very small. Check the maker's guidance for your model's tip life.
Which suits whom
Whatever you choose, keep brushing twice a day for about two minutes. If you are upgrading your toothbrush at the same time, our guide to electric toothbrushes with gentle modes includes models with pressure sensors that pair well with careful gumline cleaning.
- Interdental brushes: good if your hygienist has sized them for you, you like a quick, portable routine and your gaps are open enough.
- Water flosser: good for braces, bridges and implants if your dental team agrees, for very tight gaps, or if fine motor control is difficult.
- Both: many people use brushes for the larger gaps at the back and a flosser for the gumline.
Tips for each method
With interdental brushes, never force a brush into a gap. Use a gentle in-and-out motion and rinse the brush after each gap. Replace it when it bends.
With a water flosser, start on the lowest setting with lukewarm water, lean over the sink and keep your lips almost closed. Our guides on how to use a water flosser and water flosser vs string floss cover more detail.
Note:If cleaning between your teeth causes pain, or bleeding that does not settle, stop and see a dentist or hygienist.
Frequently asked questions
Is a water flosser better than interdental brushes? Neither is better for everyone. NHS guidance names interdental brushes and floss; a water flosser can suit people who cannot use them. Ask your hygienist.
How do I know my interdental brush size? Your dentist or hygienist can size them for you. The brush should fit snugly without forcing.
Can I use a water flosser with braces? Many people do, and orthodontic tips are available. Check with your orthodontist.
How often should I clean between my teeth? Follow your dental team's advice. Many suggest once a day.
What you need
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