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The main reason we brush our teeth is to remove plaque that adheres to the tooth surface, and it has been widely debated over the years whether manual or electric tooth brushing does this more effectively. 

There is no definitive answer to this question as both methods rely on the patient brushing correctly and the toothbrush reaching the tooth and gum surfaces needing to be cleaned. So the answer as to which one works best is different for everyone. If you are brushing correctly with a manual toothbrush you can generally achieve the same results as if you were to brush correctly using an electric toothbrush.

It may be easier for patients with less dexterity to use an electric toothbrush as the electric toothbrush can provide the vibration (jiggling action) required to remove plaque from the tooth surface. However the toothbrush must still reach the surfaces that require cleaning. Young children, people with arthritis or those with a disability, which affects their manual dexterity, may achieve better results using an electric toothbrush.

Chat with your dentist at your next dental appointment if you want to ask which toothbrush might be best for you.

 

Many people would like to make changes to their smiles but don’t know where to start. The first step is to visit a dentist at one of our nib Dental Care Centres. Here you will be able to discuss your ideas or concerns with your dentist who can then provide you with a range of treatment options that will work towards enhancing your smile.

There are many options, depending upon your needs, our friendly dentists may discuss with you:

Porcelain Veneers

If you are unhappy with your smile, one way to transform your look is with Porcelain Veneers. These small, custom-made, porcelain facings are attached to the front surface of your tooth/teeth to provide a brighter smile with a more uniform look.

Porcelain Veneers can be used to cover stained, chipped, decayed or slightly crooked teeth providing a fresher look and hiding signs of normal wear and tear. They can also help to fill any spaces between teeth or alter the shape of your teeth to enhance the appearance of your smile. In most circumstances Porcelain Veneers require 2 to 3 visits to fit, your dentist only removes a small amount of your natural tooth structure when preparing the tooth for Porcelain Veneers.

As veneers are only applied to the front of the teeth, care needs to be taken to maximise the time your veneers will last. Your dentist will provide further information on how to care for your veneers at the time of your consultation.

Another veneer option is Composite Veneers. Composite Veneers are an alternative to Porcelain Veneers and are created in the chair by the direct application of tooth coloured filling material to the front of your teeth, they can usually be completed within one appointment. Composite Veneers require very little preparation to the natural tooth, similar to Porcelain Veneers care needs to be taken to maximise the time your veneers will last.

 

Everyone wants to have a healthy, glowing smile – and teeth whitening is a great option to remove stains that may have developed over a long period of time.

During the visit your dentist will be able to determine if you are a good candidate for teeth whitening and discuss the best teeth whitening procedure for you.

To find out more about teeth whitening call 1300 345 300 and book an appointment with one of our friendly dentists or book an appointment online.

Follow these 6 simple steps to keep you smiling all through the year!

1. Clean your teeth twice daily using a soft toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste
2. Floss between your teeth to remove any food or plaque your toothbrush can’t get to
3. Use Picksters to clean the gum between teeth
4. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks
5. Eat a wide range of nutritious food
6. Visit your dentist regularly.