From The Oral Health Therapist's Mouth - Leslie Yan

Leslie Yan has joined the team Lumino Viva Dental and is offering hygiene treatments for $149 for a limited time.

What made you decide to get into dentistry as a career?

Growing up I was surrounded by family members who were health professionals. Seeing the impact they made in people's lives motivated me to pursue a career in healthcare. 

How long have you been practising?

I graduated from the University of Otago with a Bachelor of Oral Health in 2023.

Tell us about your career background.

This is my first year of practice as an oral health therapist. 

What do you love most about your job?

Helping my local community. I’ve lived on the North Shore for more than a decade, and many of my extended family also live on the Shore. It’s great to move back here after graduating.

What are your special interests in dentistry?

I enjoy helping elderly patients and giving them oral health advice on home care. 

What is the main piece of advice you give your patients and why is this important? 

Brushing twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste. Not all toothpastes commercially available in New Zealand contain fluoride. Fluoride is a natural substance that strengthens the tooth surface and makes it more resistant to decay. The Ministry of Health recommends that adults and children brush their teeth twice daily with toothpaste containing at least 1,000 ppm of fluoride (0.221% sodium fluoride or 0.76% sodium monofluorophosphate).

Where would we find you outside of the practice?

Spending time with family and cycling.