What Happens When You Don't Brush Your Teeth?

You might believe that skipping a tooth brushing now and again won't harm you.

You shouldn't have any severe dental problems if you forget to push your teeth every now and again. It's best not to make this a habit, though. Brushing and flossing twice a day isn't just a suggestion; it helps to reduce plaque buildup and tooth decay.

Beyond a toothache or cavity, your dental health can cause a range of health problems.

Issues with Dental Health

Plaque is prevented by brushing and flossing your teeth properly. Plaque is responsible for a wide range of dental issues and is nearly invisible to the untrained eye in its early stages.

Cavities 

Cavity-causing bacteria reside in plaque, which can pierce the protective enamel of your teeth.

Cavities can cause dental infections and, in the worst-case scenario, tooth loss if left untreated. Good news, right? Brushing and flossing regularly can help to prevent cavities.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis, a type of gum disease, can be exacerbated by plaque. Microorganisms included in plaque irritate and inflame the gums. Gums become red, sensitive, and bleed readily. Gingivitis can cause your gums to recede, resulting in tooth loss.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is preceded by gingivitis, much like cavities are preceded by plaque. The teeth-supporting bones are affected by this dangerous bone infection. The most common cause of tooth loss is periodontitis.

Plaque take how long to build?

Dental health is influenced by genetics. It can be discouraging to see a friend who rarely brushes get by with no cavities while you brush often and have thinner enamel.

Brushing is necessary for everyone, even if genetics plays a role in your dental health. Brushing and flossing, without a doubt, help to minimize plaque buildup, which in turn helps to prevent other dental problems.

Here's what happens if you don't practice appropriate hygiene for various periods of time:

One day without brushing: 

Plaque begins as a sticky substance that can be easily removed with a good brushing practice; but, the longer we keep it on our teeth, the more difficult it becomes to remove. Plaque begins to eat away at your dentin within 48 hours of contact. Tartar forms as plaque hardens, and it must be scraped out by a specialist.

One week without brushing: 

Your tooth enamel continues to deteriorate after one week. The plaque that hasn't been removed will foster unpleasant breath. Your teeth will be sticky, not smooth, as they would be if they were clean.

You will have a higher risk of developing cavities if you do not clean your teeth for one week. Plaque may also irritate your gums, producing pain and discomfort.

Continued improper brushing habits: 

If you continue to clean your teeth seldom or clumsily, you will most likely develop major dental issues within a year. You'll have to deal with cavities, gingivitis, and tartar accumulation.

Infection or high blood pressure can be caused by poor tooth hygiene.

Oral Hygiene

Various people have different perspectives on what constitutes good oral hygiene. The ADA's suggestions are a helpful point of reference. The American Dental Association has these tips for daily tooth care:

Brush

To avoid cavities, brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Brush for at least 2 minutes to ensure that all plaque is removed.

If you use too much pressure, your gums will become irritated.

Floss

Flossing is recommended at least once a day. Consider alternatives such as water flossing if flossing isn't your thing. Flossing is a difficult habit to develop, but it has a significant impact on your oral health.

Visit Your Dentist

Contact your dentist to schedule an appointment. At least once every six months, you should visit your dentist.

Some dentists may recommend that you see them more often. This is especially true if you've had cavities in the past, have gum disease, or are at risk of getting gum disease.

Invest in the right tools

Using an electric toothbrush instead of a manual toothbrush can improve your dental hygiene significantly. With their timed settings, electric toothbrushes promote optimum brushing length and are more successful at removing plaque.

If you don't want to spend the money on an electric toothbrush, make sure to brush in circular motions with a soft bristle brush.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

A well-balanced diet is essential. Eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as limiting high-sugar foods, can help to prevent dental disease.

Dental Cleanings & Checkups

Don't get too worked up if you forget to wash your teeth now and again.

However, it's important to remember that brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing once a day, and seeing your dentist at least twice a year are all important for your general oral health.

Your teeth will remain healthy if you have regular dental examinations. Cavities and gum disease are easier to cure and have a healthy mouth if they are caught early. If found early enough, some cavities don't even require fillings.

Plaque and tartar can be removed by dental cleanings. If you want to improve your appearance, professional teeth whitening is always a possibility.