Choosing the Right TePe Interdental Brush Size for Your Gaps
By Oral Health Care &lnterdental Brush- | Published: 2026-10-24
Category: Buying Guides
Learn how to match TePe interdental brush sizes to your tooth gaps using the ISO color code system. Get practical advice for sensitive gums and tight spaces.
Quick answer
Choose your TePe interdental brush size by matching the ISO diameter (in millimeters) to your gap width. Start with the smallest size that slides in without forcing, then move up until you feel light resistance.
Why size matters for gum health
Using an interdental brush that is too small won't remove plaque effectively, while one that is too large can irritate or damage your gums. The right size slides in gently and cleans the entire gap surface.
TePe uses an ISO color code system that makes it easy to identify brush diameters. Each color corresponds to a specific wire core size and bristle diameter, so you can quickly grab the right one once you know your size.
Extra Soft vs. Original: What's the difference?
TePe offers two main bristle types: Original and Extra Soft. Original brushes have standard stiffness and are ideal for everyday plaque removal in most mouths. Extra Soft brushes feature finer, more flexible bristles for a gentler clean.
Choose Extra Soft if you have sensitive teeth, dry mouth, or are recovering from oral surgery. They come in a narrower size range (ISO 0–5), so they work best for smaller gaps.
How to choose your TePe size
- Measure your gap: Gently insert the smallest brush (ISO 0, pink) between your teeth. If it slides in without touching the sides, try the next size up. The correct size will feel snug but not forced.
- Match the ISO number: TePe brushes are labeled with an ISO number (e.g., ISO 6) that corresponds to the wire core diameter in tenths of a millimeter. The color code helps you identify the size quickly. Keep a reference chart handy until you memorize your sizes.
- Test multiple gaps: Your mouth likely has gaps of different sizes. Check each gap separately and note the size needed. You may need two or three different brush sizes for a complete clean. Buy a variety pack or individual sizes to cover all your gaps.
Product facts
- TePe® Interdental Brushes Extra Soft Purple - 1.1 mm (ISO 6): TePe Extra Soft Interdental Brushes have Extra Soft bristles for the most gentle clean, recommended for sensitive teeth, dry mouth, or after oral surgery. If your gums bleed easily or feel tender, this brush lets you clean between teeth without aggravating sensitive areas.
TePe® Interdental Brushes Extra Soft Purple - 1.1 mm (ISO 6) - TePe® Interdental Brushes Original Gray - 1.3 mm (ISO 7): TePe Original Interdental Brushes are the best-selling brush for removing plaque between the teeth, featuring a straight brush head and short handle. For most people with healthy gums, the Original line offers effective plaque removal in a wide range of sizes (ISO 0–8).
TePe® Interdental Brushes Original Gray - 1.3 mm (ISO 7)
Who should use which type
Best for
- People with sensitive gums or post-surgery recovery: TePe Extra Soft (ISO 3–6)
- Most adults with average gaps: TePe Original (ISO 6–8)
Not ideal for
- Very tight gaps (under 0.6 mm): Extra Soft ISO 3 is the smallest; consider TePe EasyPick instead
- Wide gaps (over 1.5 mm): Original ISO 8 is the largest; look for a different brand with larger sizes
