Abstract

Summary(1) The diseases, dental caries and periodontoclasia, from which practically all loss of teeth occurs, are present and active in most people.(2) Dental decay is due to the harmful effects of acids produced by bacterial decomposition of food which is retained on and between the teeth.(3) Periodontoclasia is due to the irritation and inflammation caused by the accumulation and retention of food particles, debris, and mass of bacteria at the gum margin and in the gingival crevice.(4) These diseases can be entirely prevented and further progress of existing disease can be stopped by properly cleaning the teeth at night before retiring.(5) The teeth can be effectively cleaned by brushing and the proper use of dental floss, followed by rinsing. They cannot be cleaned in any other way.