How interdental brushes can be helpful for those with arthritis

July is Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month. The Arthritis National Research Foundation (ANRF) advocates for scientific research and promotes awareness of Arthritis and Autoimmune conditions. It is not just the aging population that are afflicted with arthritis. Nearly 300,000 children in America have been diagnosed with juvenile arthritis (ANRF, 2019). Key symptoms include joint pain, reddened joints and swelling that does not dissipate. If joints in the hands and arms are affected, oral health may become difficult to maintain.

Flossing is not always the best option to clean between the teeth, especially for those with limited dexterity. Flossing is technique sensitive with low ease of use. Alternatively, interdental brushes effectively remove plaque and are often easier to use.

TePe products have many features that can assist with limited dexterity and strength.

• TePe Angle Interdental Brush is used to clean between the teeth, and the long handle and angled head allows easier access to the back teeth.
• TePe Original Interdental Brush is used to clean between the teeth. The short broad handle makes it easy to hold, and there are nine sizes to fit narrow to wide spaces.
• TePe Extra Grip was developed to help those with reduced manual strength and dexterity by providing a comfortable, stable grip that will fit TePe Select and GOOD toothbrushes and special brushes.
• TePe Supreme Toothbrush has a broad handle with thumbpad, along with multi-level bristles to reach further between the teeth and along the gumline.