Is flossing using portable water jet machines (similar to the ones used in Dental clinics) effective. Or must one use the mechanical flossing method using flossing filaments?

Ans: Hello
It's a misconception that the spaces between teeth increase with the daily use of floss or toothpicks. So please continue flossing daily.
Any measures you use to ensure no food debris remains is obviously going to help maintain your oral hygiene. It goes without saying that you have to be gentle when you brush, floss or pick your teeth

Ans: Hi Anil
Most dentists stress the fact of not replacing proper oral health care of brushing and flossing with mouthwash. It’s more important to have a well-established routine of cleaning your teeth twice a day than using mouthwash. There is no harm in using a mouthwash once or twice a week or even once every day so long as you do not neglect your brushing and flossing.
While mouthwashes used in moderation have well documented benefits they can never be a substitute for thorough tooth brushing and flossing. And if you brush well and floss your teeth regularly you may never need a mouthwash!
Please note mouthwashes that contain high levels of alcohol can irritate the tissues in the mouth. Excessive mouthwash use can cause mouth dryness, leading to potential tooth sensitivity.
A lot of people believe that mouthwash cures halitosis (bad breath) when in reality the minty effect is short-lived. There is a difference between masking the odour and treating the condition.

Ans: Hello

Please always buy toothpastes and toothbrushes marketed by reputed companies only. Because then you can be assured of some basic quality control.
Please note that most good toothpastes have nearly the same composition. The basic differences between them being colour and flavour. Please do not be carried away with tall claims or gimmicks such as addition of charcoal, clove or cooling crystals.
Ultimately, how healthy your teeth and gums remain will depend upon how regularly and how meticulously you brush your teeth. Not on the brand of toothpaste or toothbrush!
A few hints:
# Toothpastes containing *Fluoride* may reduce incidence of tooth decay.
# A pleasant tasting toothpaste may motivate you to brush regularly.
# Transparent (gel) toothpastes are less abrasive and cause less damage to tooth enamel.

# Toothbrushes with shorter heads (lesser number of bristles) have better access to nooks and crannies and may actually clean better than brushes with more bristles!
If your teeth are misaligned or crooked using a baby brush may help!
# Use *Medium* brushes. If your gums bleed, please consult your dentist. It is a sign your gums are not healthy. Do not automatically switch to Soft or Supersoft brushes.
# Change your brush when it "flowers" (when bristles curl)

Ans: Hello
I'm happy to know you brush and floss regularly. Please continue to do so.
While poor oral hygiene is the leading cause of bad breath, it is definitely not the only cause. Please be informed that it can be caused by various other factors, too.

Here are some of the most common causes of bad breath, also known as HALITOSIS.

Oral Health Issues
1. _Poor oral hygiene_: Infrequent brushing and flossing can lead to the buildup of bacteria, plaque, and tartar, causing bad breath.
2. _Gingivitis and gum disease_: Inflammation and infection of the gums can cause bad breath.
3. _Tooth decay and cavities_: Bacteria in the mouth can break down food particles, especially sugars, and release volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) that cause bad breath.

Food and Drinks
1. _Onions and garlic_: These foods contain sulfur compounds that can be released in the mouth and cause bad breath.
2. _Coffee and tobacco_: These substances can dry out the mouth, leading to an increase in bacteria and VSCs.
3. _Spicy or acidic foods_: Foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and spicy dishes can irritate the mouth and cause bad breath.

Medical Conditions
1. _Diabetes_: Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to dry mouth, which can contribute to bad breath.
2. _Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)_: Stomach acid can flow up into the mouth, causing bad breath.
3. _Sinus infections and respiratory issues_: Postnasal drip and respiratory infections can cause bad breath.
4. _Kidney disease and liver disease_: These conditions can cause a buildup of toxins in the body, leading to bad breath.

Lifestyle Factors
1. _Smoking and tobacco use_: Tobacco products can dry out the mouth and cause bad breath.
2. _Alcohol consumption_: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to dry mouth and bad breath.
3. _Medications_: Certain medications, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and decongestants, can cause dry mouth and bad breath.
4. _Hormonal changes_: Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can lead to bad breath.

Other Factors
1. _Dry mouth_: A lack of saliva can contribute to bad breath.
2. _Mouth breathing_: Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose can dry out the mouth and cause bad breath.
3. _Poor digestion_: Undigested food particles in the stomach can be released into the mouth, causing bad breath.


If you're concerned about bad breath, it's essential to consult your dentist so that he can examine your teeth and gums thoroughly to rule out local factors and address any underlying medical conditions.

Mouthwashes definitely help by keeping the oral bacteria under control. At least temporarily. They mask mouth odours and give you a feeling of freshness.
But the root cause of the problem still needs to be identified and suitably treated. Also, please note that mouthwashes are not a substitute for regular brushing and flossing.
Your dentist will guide you on what mouthwash suits you best depending on your lifestyle, oral hygiene and medical history.
Meanwhile, here are some good attributes to look for in a mouthwash:

Active Ingredients
1. _Antibacterial agents_: Chlorhexidine, triclosan, or essential oils (e.g., tea tree oil) to combat bacteria and plaque.
2. _Anti-inflammatory agents_: Ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile to reduce gum inflammation.
3. _Antifungal agents_: Ingredients like domiphen bromide to combat fungal infections.
4. _Fluoride_: To strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay.

Additional Benefits
1. _Anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis properties_: To help prevent the buildup of plaque and reduce the risk of gingivitis.
2. _Bad breath prevention_: Ingredients like chlorine dioxide or zinc to help eliminate volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) that cause bad breath.
3. _Sensitivity relief_: Ingredients like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride to help desensitize nerves and provide relief from tooth sensitivity.
4. _Whitening agents_: Mild abrasives or hydrogen peroxide to help remove surface stains and whiten teeth.

Safety and Comfort
1. _Alcohol-free_: To avoid drying out the mouth and reducing saliva production.
2. _Sugar-free and artificial sweetener-free_: To make the mouthwash suitable for people with dietary restrictions or preferences.
3. _pH balanced_: To ensure the mouthwash doesn't disrupt the natural pH balance of the mouth.
4. _Gentle and non-irritating_: To minimize the risk of mouth irritation, especially for people with sensitive teeth or gums.