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Dental Health and Hygiene
Dental Health and Hygiene: What would happen if you gave up brushing/flossing everyday, and only used mouthwash instead?
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Theoretically, plaque biofilm is a layer of bacterial colony that keeps on developing on ur clean tooth structure. To remove it completely, u need to use a mouthwash with antimicrobial agent as well as professional scaling. Rinsing alone will only remove the debris but not the sticky biofilm. Brushing alone will also not completely remove the biofilm. But on a practical view point, brushing alone would be enough to maintain a good oral health. Mouthwashes are only recommended during gum infections.
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Hi, you are asking a genuine doubt.
Whatever we eat it forms a rough sticky layer on our teeth known as plaque which contains bacteria and debris. We need to remove this stick layer from teeth mechanically, our elders used neem datun to remove this layer. Also, antibiotic effect of neem used to kill bacteria. Later, we replaced it with toothbrush. Mouthwash can kill only bacteria but will not remove this layer leading to unhealthy gums and decay of teeth. Thus we need to use a toothbrush twice a day, but yes we can minimise the amount of toothpaste that we use as it has only detergent effect. Also flossing is necessary to remove food stuck between two teeth. Hope that answers your query.
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Dr. Archana Betur
Dentist
11 yrs exp
Bangalore
The worst idea any dentist would say at ur age.. Local cleaning of ur teeth n gums serve its almost importance in maintaining ur oral hygiene n keeping ur teeth without decay...
Do brush twice daily n learn to floss... U ll see the good results ur self n enjoy that pleasure of having a good oral hygiene.. .
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Dr. Viral Parikh
Dentist
24 yrs exp
Mumbai
Hi,
Brushing your teeth twice a day is mandatory to maintain a good oral hygiene.
Dental Floss and mouthwashes are only adjuncts.
These aids cannot be used as alternatives to toothbrushes.
The tiny spaces between the teeth and sides and surfaces if teeth need a good quality soft bristled brush to get rid of plaque.
Hope this answers your query.
If you have any other doubt, feel free to raise it here.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.