Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

Effective Plaque Removal: Disclosing Agents and Oral Hygiene Tips in Glen Iris.

Daily removal of plaque—the bacterial film that builds up on teeth—is essential to prevent dental disease. But how do you know if your brushing and flossing are making a difference?

Plaque forms naturally each day from leftover food particles after eating. Bacteria within it produce acid that may erode tooth enamel, leads to tooth decay, and can infect gums, causing gum disease.

Twice-daily plaque removal with thorough brushing and interdental cleaning keeps harmful bacteria in check. A quick brush isn’t enough—plaque’s sticky texture allows it to hide below gums, in uneven biting surfaces, or underneath overhanging restorations.

Because plaque resembles natural tooth color, it’s very difficult to spot visually. That’s where disclosing agents come in—solutions, tablets, or swabs containing dye that temporarily stains plaque (not tooth enamel). Dr. Kaufman uses these to show patients areas they may be missing when brushing and flossing, and you can use them at home too.

To check for plaque after cleaning, chew a disclosing tablet or swish solution for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. The dye will stain plaque in a bright red color—some products even show older plaque in a different color than new. Examine your teeth in the mirror, then brush and floss until all color is gone.

Disclosing dyes are safe in the mouth, but don’t swallow or let them touch clothing. Dye on lips, gums, or tongue fades in a few hours.

For more advice on effective oral hygiene, please ask Dr. Kaufman or schedule an appointment for a professional consultation.

Tips to Help You Floss Like a Dentist in Glen Iris

Flossing may not be your favorite thing to do, but it is one of the most important things you can do for the health of your teeth. Flossing clears away food and other debris that can get stuck between teeth. Without flossing, bacteria can build up and cause cavities and gum disease. While it may seem simple, there is actually a bit of technique to flossing like a pro.

How to floss:

When flossing, start with about 30 cm of floss. Wrap one index finger with enough floss so it does not slide when you pull, wrap the extra length around your other index finger and leave a few centimeters between them. Gently work the floss between each pair of teeth by sliding it up and down in a rubbing motion. When you reach the gum line, gently slide the floss into the space between the root and the gum line.

What floss to use:

Waxed floss is easier to use because it glides over your teeth better than un-waxed floss. On the other hand unwaxed floss is better since the fibers can trap more bacteria on their way. When you’re choosing a floss material, look for PTFE floss instead of nylon floss, because nylon versions can shred more easily.

When to floss?

Ideally brushing and flossing would happen after every meal. But if you can only floss once a day, we recommend doing it at bedtime. When you’re asleep, saliva production slows down and bacteria can easily multiply, so flossing before bed can decrease the bacteria growing at night.

How to floss on the go?

Floosing at idle times during the day is a good strategy to get the bacteria numbers down. Keep single-use, disposable “flossers” with you at all times. You’ll be thankful, especially if you have a piece of food stuck in your teeth that distracts you.

If you discover pain or bleeding in your gums when you floss, these are signs you need to see your dentist, since it could be a sign of gum disease. If you would like to schedule an appointment for an examination please call 98227006.