What happens if you don’t brush for days?

Most dentists, including those with La Costa Dental Group, agree that brushing your teeth twice per day is one of the best things that you can do to safeguard your oral health. Of course, this is not based on hyperbole as multiple studies have proven that failing to do so can give way to a myriad of dental problems.

One study, in particular, which was published by the American Dental Association, noted that brushing your teeth with fluoride-based toothpaste for at least 2 minutes each day can significantly lower the risk of cavities and tooth decay. And this is especially true when it comes to molars and premolars as both have deep grooves that make them extremely susceptible to such dental problems. Sadly, far too many people in America ignore the recommendations of licensed dentists and studies emphasizing the importance of brushing twice per day. The same applies to daily flossing as well.

America’s Aversion to Taking Care of Their Teeth

If you’re averse to brushing your teeth twice per day as recommended by dentists in Del Mar, Encinitas, and others in the San Diego County area, you’re not alone. According to Delta Dental, recognized as the leading provider of dental insurance in America, over 23 percent of people in America admit to going two or more days without brushing at all. It is worth noting that the percentage is even higher among those in their late teens to early twenties, with more than 37 percent of these young adults admitting to the same. These individuals are not only at risk of developing cavities that can lead to tooth decay but also a host of other severe dental problems. According to dentists in Encinitas and other dental practitioners throughout the greater San Diego County area, these dental problems include the following:

Gingivitis – Not brushing twice per day means that more plaque and tartar can form on the teeth, which can lead to an early form of gum disease known as gingivitis. Symptoms of this dental problem often include inflamed gums and gums that bleed easily.

Periodontal disease – This dental problem is similar to gingivitis but more severe. Periodontitis, also known as periodontal disease, is an advanced form of gum disease that stems from untreated gingivitis, which, of course, comes from not brushing or otherwise taking care of one’s teeth. Individuals with this form of gum disease often have periodontal pockets that are deeper than 4 millimeters. For reference, individuals who have healthy teeth and gums, which is a byproduct of brushing twice per day and flossing, typically have pockets that are between 1 and 3 millimeters.

Both gingivitis and periodontitis can both cause halitosis and increase the risk of tooth loss. These same dental problems can also give way to heart disease and other chronic diseases if they go untreated for too long.

Bottom Line

This article only provides a small glimpse of the consequences associated with not brushing twice per day. That being said, if you’re not already brushing twice per day, there is no time like the present to get started. You may also want to consider scheduling a dental exam with La Costa Dental Group or one of the many dentists in Encinitas while you’re at it.