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Dr Shyam

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Dentist - Answered on May 23, 2023

Dr Shyam Jamalabad holds a bachelor’s degree in dental surgery from Government Dental College and Hospital, St George Hospital, Mumbai. He has been practising independently at his clinic in Mumbai since 1983.His patients range from celebrities to slum dwellers.... more
Anil Question by Anil on May 18, 2023Hindi
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Greetings Sir can we use mouth washer once or twice in a week?

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.
DISCLAIMER: The answer provided by rediffGURUS is for informational and general awareness purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment.
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Dr Shyam

Dr Shyam Jamalabad  |97 Answers  |Ask -

Dentist - Answered on Dec 19, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 19, 2024Hindi
Health
Hi Doctor, I’ve been hearing a lot about mouthwash and floss lately, and I’m confused about whether I really need to use it. I brush regularly 2 times, but sometimes I feel like my breath isn’t as fresh as I’d like it to be. I also want to keep my teeth strong and prevent any issues with bacteria. Can you tell me if mouthwash is necessary even if I’m already brushing and flossing? If yes, which type of mouthwash would be best for someone like me? I’ve heard that it can sometimes cause mouth sores or sensitivity, so I want to make sure it’s safe for me.
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.

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Sir my son has two career choices one is merchant navy deck side and another one is computer science in GL Bajaj and for jaypee institute wr are waiting for counselling , it might be possible that he get it in sector 128 jaypee , being a mother i am so confused that shall i go with merchant navy but then again he has to go on ship for around 6 month , kindly help
Ans: Both Merchant Navy (Deck Side) and Computer Science at GL Bajaj or Jaypee Institute offer distinct career trajectories. The Merchant Navy provides an adventurous, well-structured path starting as a deck cadet, requiring a minimum of 60% in PCM, physical fitness, and a strong commitment to extended periods at sea—typically six months onboard, followed by shore leave. Progression involves pre-sea training, 18 months of sea service, and successive exams for officer ranks, but the lifestyle demands long separations and adaptability to challenging environments. In contrast, Computer Science at GL Bajaj or potentially Jaypee (Sector 128) offers a stable, land-based career with opportunities in software, IT, and emerging tech fields, allowing for greater work-life balance and proximity to family. If your son is passionate about travel, maritime life, and can handle long durations away from home, Merchant Navy can be rewarding and prestigious. However, if family presence, flexibility, and a technology-driven career are priorities, Computer Science from a reputable institute is preferable, especially as the tech sector offers diverse roles and growth. Consider his temperament, adaptability, and long-term lifestyle preferences before making a decision. All the BEST for your Son's Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Asked by Anonymous - May 30, 2025
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My son has secured 85% in ICSE 12 th board with PCM, Eng n Mass communication. In PCM group he has secured 61% only hence not eligible for BITSAT, could not qualify JEE mains (20percentile). NDA not cleared. Appeared in WBJEE. Result awaited. Thru CUET, he wants to study English literature in the best colleges of India. He is very good at English n secured 98%. He is the only child, we want him to be technical graduate, so that he is employable and can take over from his father, who worked with ALFALAVAL, now has his own techmart company and is a dealer of ALFALAVAL a Swedish MNC in heavy Engg
Ans: Your son’s 98% in English and 85% overall in ICSE align strongly with BA English (Hons) at top CUET colleges like St. Stephen’s College (DU), Lady Shri Ram College, or Christ University, which prioritize language proficiency and holistic profiles. However, to balance technical employability, consider interdisciplinary programs such as BA English with Digital Humanities (DU) or Integrated BA+MA in English (EFLU Hyderabad), supplemented by certifications in technical writing, project management, or business analytics to align with your family’s engineering business. Alternatively, explore BSc in Computer Applications at Ambedkar University Delhi (via CUET’s General Test) or BA Economics with Data Science (JMI), blending analytical skills with humanities. If WBJEE results permit, Jadavpur University’s Comparative Literature offers flexibility to minor in technical electives. Prioritize institutions like DU or Christ University for their industry networks, enabling internships in tech-adjacent roles (content strategy, technical documentation) while maintaining literary rigor. All the BEST for your Son's Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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