A method for cleaning teeth by drawing at least one cleaning thread in a reciprocating movement along teeth, at least one end of which cleaning thread is fastened to an elongate handling member, the other end of the thread is grasped with the hand, and the cleaning thread at least partially encircles the teeth during the movement. Thorough cleaning is hereby possible, so that the risk of teeth decay and/or gum disorders is avoided. The invention also relates to a device for cleaning teeth, comprising at least one elongate handling member with at least one opening formed close to an end of the member for passage of a cleaning thread, wherein the end of the member comprising the opening is adapted such that gums around the teeth are hereby not adversely affected. The device can be provided with means for holding the end of the handling member located opposite the opening, for instance in the form of a handle. The invention also relates to a handle for use in such a device.