Forget Floss: Why Interproximal Cleaning Is the Better Choice
Cleaning between your teeth is essential for maintaining healthy gums and preventing cavities—but at Vision Dental, we actually recommend against traditional flossing.
Why? String floss can be difficult to use correctly and often misses plaque in those hard-to-reach areas. In some cases, it may even cause damage to the gums when used improperly. That’s why we encourage our patients to switch to interproximal cleaning—a safer, more effective alternative.
The Best Tool – Piksters
Piksters interdental brushes are now widely recommended as one of the most effective tools for cleaning between teeth. Designed to reach areas that floss often misses, they gently remove plaque and food particles while being easy to handle and gentle on your gums.
Whether you have braces, dental implants, or just want a better clean between your teeth, Piksters make daily interproximal cleaning simple and more effective.
Why We Recommend Interproximal Cleaning
- More effective plaque removal compared to string floss
- Gentle on gums—no cutting or irritation
- Easier to use, leading to better long-term habits
- Ideal for everyone, including those with dental work or tight contacts
Want to make the switch? At your next appointment, we’ll show you how to use Piksters properly and help you choose the right size for your teeth.
How to Make Brushing Fun for Kids
Establishing good oral hygiene habits early sets children up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Here are simple ways to make oral care fun:
Turn brushing into a game by using a timer or playing your child’s favorite song. Many apps make brushing entertaining with characters and rewards.
Let your child pick their own toothbrush and toothpaste with fun colors and characters they love. This simple choice gives them a sense of ownership.
Lead by example by brushing together as a family. Children naturally want to imitate their parents, so show enthusiasm for your own oral care routine.
Create a reward chart where kids earn stickers for consistent brushing, working toward a small prize or special activity.
Remember, children under eight typically need help brushing effectively. By combining supervision with these fun approaches, you’ll help develop good techniques and positive attitudes about dental care.
Nighttime Grinding: Signs, Causes, and Solutions
Do you wake up with a sore jaw or headache? You might be grinding your teeth at night without realising it. Bruxism affects millions and can lead to serious dental problems if untreated.
Watch for these signs: worn tooth enamel, increased sensitivity, jaw pain, headaches, and disrupted sleep. Your partner might even hear grinding sounds!
Common triggers include stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, abnormal bite, or missing teeth. While you can’t always prevent bruxism, you can protect your teeth from damage.
Custom-made night guards provide the most effective protection, creating a barrier between your upper and lower teeth. Additionally, stress-reduction techniques like meditation or exercise can help reduce grinding episodes.
If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth, don’t wait for damage to occur. Schedule a visit with us to discuss symptoms and explore protective options that will help preserve your smile and let you wake up feeling refreshed!
