For many people, good oral health begins and ends with brushing their teeth after meals. While this practice is commendable, sadly it is not enough. Food particles, especially those at the back of the teeth and in hard-to-reach areas, may remain lodged, causing a host of alarming oral health problems. These include halitosis (bad breath), gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontitis (a gum infection that damages soft tissue and the teeth’s bone support).
Food particles that are not removed by regular brushing may be used as fuel by anaerobic bacteria (bad bacteria) so they can multiply. These bacteria may cause dental problems such as tartar, plaque, and cavities, among others. They also release gaseous elements called volatile sulfur compounds, which are identified as major sources of strong odors in the mouth.
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