What Happens If You Don’t Brush Your Teeth

Brushing your teeth and flossing every day is just a small part of your daily routine that can benefit your overall health. However, you might be surprised that some people don’t brush as recommended twice a day or visit a dentist regularly. In the short term, this may not be an issue, but there may be more severe health consequences that are overlooked in the long term.

 

While oral hygiene is essential, brushing your teeth doesn’t just stop at keeping your breath fresh and oral bacteria at bay – it goes further into preventing other health problems.

 

The ADA recommends brushing your teeth regularly, for at least two minutes, twice a day. Plus, you should also visit your dentist every six months, to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

 

So what happens if you don’t stick to a good oral hygiene routine? Take a look at some of the key areas that a lack of care of your teeth could contribute to.

Gum disease

 

One of the most apparent health issues caused by a lack of tooth brushing is gum disease. Many people also have a misconception that it’s normal for gums to bleed while brushing. It is not. This could be a sign that you have gum disease or are on the way to developing it. Many Americans have gum disease or gingivitis, and if left untreated, it can weaken teeth and bones in the mouth. In severe cases, it is known as periodontal disease.

Tooth loss

 

Lack of proper oral care can cause tooth loss. Individuals not brushing their teeth regularly will not remove plaque and bacteria that cause gum disease; this, in turn, can lead to cavities and loss of teeth.

Bad breath

 

One of the most obvious signs of poor oral health is bad breath. The bacteria that build up in your mouth from lingering food particles will start to fester and smell. It sounds gross, and it is! If you brush and floss every day, bad breath alongside more serious oral health conditions like gum disease and tooth loss can be avoided.

Pregnancy issues

 

It is said that around 60 to 75% of pregnant women experience gingivitis, so it’s important that teeth are looked after during this period. It is also suggested that expectant mothers with oral health issues are more likely to have children that develop cavities.

Diabetes

 

Diabetes can contribute to reduced oral health and is a risk factor for developing periodontitis. It is now also suggested that periodontitis could be a factor in causing insulin resistance. Some experts have said that people who can reduce the severity of their oral disease may be able to gain better control of their diabetes.

Mouth and stomach ulcers

 

Tooth decay and poor oral health can be the cause of ulcers forming under the gum line. A bacteria called Helicobacter pylori can hide in small reservoirs under the gums and is often associated with stomach ulcers when it flares up.

 

The pockets that form under the gums if someone has periodontitis can also cause various bacteria to form, which could be the cause of other health issues and infections. 

Oral cancer

 

Some studies have suggested that there could be a link between severe periodontitis and HPV, which is the cause of many oral cancers. While the link associates smoking with both gum disease and oral cancer, research has suggested that poor oral health could also be a factor even if smoking had already been accounted for. Other studies also indicated that periodontitis might promote the growth of cells in the mouth, leading to oral cancer.

Can poor oral health cause heart disease?

 

Studies have suggested that there may be a connection between bad oral hygiene and heart disease. Both are connected with inflammation, and the American Heart Association back in 2012 highlighted that heart disease and periodontal disease share similar underlying factors.

How to prevent other health issues

 

In short, to ensure you prevent general health issues, looking after your teeth and gums is vital. Why not visit your Asheville dentist and chat about the best way to care for your teeth, and discuss any issues you have to get your oral health in check.

 

Simple brushing and flossing every day will ensure you keep bacteria at bay. Regular visits to your dentist will also keep tabs on any cavities or dental work that may need addressing. Visiting the dental hygienist will also ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned and any stubborn plaque remove. Teeth whitening is also an option if you have any discoloration.