The purpose of brushing and flossing is to mechanically remove the adherent material ( now called Oral Biofilm ) from all surfaces of teeth. When you brush, you are removing plaque from the outer and inner surfaces of your teeth. Flossing removes plaque from the triangular spaces in between your teeth where periodontal (gum) disease and hidden cavities begin. It takes just two minutes out of your day to floss, thereby promoting a healthier mouth.

Our preventive care program involves training you on ‘how to floss’. As my Professor at University said, "Just floss the teeth you want to keep".

But how do I floss?

• Floss at least once a day, ideally after meals or at least before bedtime;
• You don’t need a floss holder; your fingers will do just fine.
• Use enough floss (12 inches) comfortably wrapped around your index fingers and support it with your thumbs;
• Slide the floss between tooth contacts with a back and forth motion being sure not to "snap" the floss through as it may injure gum tissue;
• Once the floss is between your teeth, wrap it into a "C" shape around the surface of each tooth and move the floss up and down the tooth surface 4 or 5 times;
• Since plaque is very sticky, it is necessary to perform these steps or plaque will be left behind;
• Children should begin flossing as early as possible, with parents help.

To establish your ‘PREVENTIVE care plan ’ and be taught how to floss effectively, do give our Practice Manager a call on (09) 6315416 or click here to email us for an initial consultation visit. You will be required to fill in a patient registration form, which will facilitate your first visit to us.

………………. let us keep you Smiling!