Leading Dental Surgeon Dr. B S Johar has been practising for almost four decades. He holds a string of impressive degrees - BDS, F.R.S.H. (London), F.I.A.I.D, F.P.F.A. Here is his advice on how to take care of your teeth so that they stay with you for a lifetime.

How to brush

The most common dental problem in India…

"Some common problems are periodontal problem, dental caries, oral cancer and gum bleeding."

The cause of these problems…

"Mainly it is lack of education. Eating pan parag and tobacco chewing causes oral cancer and other diseases."

The number of people in India who suffer from dental problems…

"In India about 95 to 97 % of the population suffer from one dental problem or the other."

The type of brush one should use for brushing…         
How to Floss

"Brushing is important but there is no rule that you have to use a particular type of brush. You can use any type of brush. What matters is proper brushing."

The best toothpaste…

"A toothpaste with mild abrasive, fluoride-based or clove-based is recommended. Toothpastes cannot be categorised and one can use any toothpaste. But you should not use powder or coal to brush your teeth."

The common gum problems…

"The common gum problems are accumulation of plaque, tartar, horizontal loss of bone, recession of bone which is called periodontosis."

The need to see a dentist regularly…

"Children must see a dentist once in three months. Adults can see a dentist once a year."

How to avoid dental problems…

"Brush your teeth morning and evening, and if possible do it in the afternoon also. Eat low carbohydrate foods, avoid chocolates, candies and sugar-based products. One must visit a dental centre regularly to get a through checkup."

The consequences of ignoring dental care…

"There are many serious consequences of ignoring tooth care. The mouth is the root for food and if your mouth and teeth are not clean it will cause stomach problems. Food gets infected along with the puss in the mouth and when it enters our stomach it causes diseases like ulcer. It also causes a condition called sub acute bacterial endocarditis which affects the heart."

"Keep your mouth clean and you won't need to see a dentist."