Proper brushing is the first step in maintaining healthy teeth and gums and only requires two minutes. Here at Dentalcare West, we believe that prevention is better than cure! That means regular dental visits with one of our dental hygienists, and good oral care at home. That means regular brushing and flossing and the use of a good brushing technique.

Here's an example of an effective way to brush: 4. For the outer tooth surfaces, place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward the gum line. 5. Use a circular motion. 6. Use this same motion to clean the chewing and inner tooth surfaces. 7. To clean the inner front tooth surfaces, hold the brush upright and use gentle up and down strokes with the tip of the brush. 8. Don't forget to brush along the gum line, and make sure you reach those teeth right at the back. 9. And while you're at it, give your tongue a brushing—it'll help keep your breath fresh!

Brushing is important, but it's only part of the program. Did you know if you don't floss, you're leaving as much as 40% of your tooth surfaces untouched and uncleaned? A two-step process of brushing and interdental cleaning is the key to helping maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout your life.

Choose a toothbrush with a brush head design that helps you to get to the hard-to-reach places of your mouth. This means a smaller brush. Many toothbrushes have heads that are far too big to get in all the small spaces. Your toothbrush should also have soft bristles that are gentle on your teeth and gums. Medium and hard brushes only cause damage to your teeth and gums, they are no better and cleaning.

It's also important to change your toothbrush regularly. Studies have shown that a new toothbrush removes up to 30 percent more plaque than one that's that months old. A new brush every 3 months is a good aim.

There are 2 main types of electric tooth brushes in New Zealand. Oral B make a brush with a small round head that oscillate around and around. Phillips make a sonic style brush that vibrates extremely quickly loosening the plaque on your teeth and gums.

Refer to the brushing instructions supplied with your electric toothbrush. Here's an example: 2. Make sure you guide the brush head slowly from tooth to tooth, following the curve of the gum and the shape of each tooth. 3. Hold the brush head in place for a few seconds before moving on to the next tooth. 4. Don't forget to reach all areas, including the inner and chewing surfaces, and behind your back teeth. 5. Direct the brush head along the gum line. It isn't necessary to press hard or scrub. Simply let the brush do all the work.

If you have widely spaced teeth, braces, bridges or implants, you may benefit from an interdental toothbrush. This toothbrush has a very small tapered or cylindrical head with fine bristles.

• Keep sweets and sugary foods to a minimum. Instead, choose sugar-free foods for snacking. Good choices include vegetables, fresh fruits, bread and plain popcorn.

• Don't smoke or use tobacco. Tobacco stains the teeth and the "yellowing" effect on teeth cannot be removed by brushing alone. Your dentist can recommend other options, such as bleaching for removing these stains.

• Cut down on fizzy soft drinks. Many, including diet soft drinks, contain acids that can damage tooth enamel.

• If you can't brush right after eating, a piece of sugar-free gum is a good substitute. That's because chewing gum increases your saliva, which is the mouth's built-in defence system to neutralize harmful plaque acids against the development of harmful plaque.