What are the consequences of neglecting to brush your teeth?

Dental professionals recommend brushing twice daily. But that's not enough. Daily flossing is also crucial to prevent plaque accumulation. With all the rinsing and spitting involved, it's natural to question the importance of brushing and imagine what might happen if we stopped altogether. After all, cavemen didn't brush, so why do we?

A major issue with skipping brushing is the impact of today's diet. The human mouth hosts over 600 types of bacteria. While some are beneficial, guarding against harmful invaders, many are destructive. Plaque, a bacterial film, thrives on leftover sugars, producing acids that erode tooth enamel and create cavities. These sugars are a feast for plaque bacteria [source: Cromie].

Since many human foods are high in sugar, there's an abundance of food for sugar-loving bacteria, especially if brushing is neglected. Over time, plaque hardens and resists scraping, turning into biofilm or super plaque. This forms tartar, which irritates gums. The first sign of trouble is gingivitis, an inflammation caused by unchecked plaque and tartar growth. It may lead to bleeding and swollen gums, often overlooked due to the absence of pain.

Gingivitis signals more severe issues ahead. Gum pockets form as irritated gums recede from teeth, trapping food particles and fostering bacterial growth. Uncontrolled plaque in these pockets, on teeth, and around gums causes cavities, swollen gums, discolored teeth, bone loss, abscesses, and severe bad breath.

Neglecting brushing for extended periods leads to periodontitis, a group of gum diseases marked by symptoms like loose teeth, tooth loss, and intense pain. Severe decay causes constant discomfort, often prompting pleas for tooth extraction. Eating sugary, hot, or cold foods becomes painful, eliminating treats like ice cream permanently.

The situation worsens when considering the mouth as a gateway to the body. Bacteria from poor oral hygiene can spread, potentially contributing to serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and even cancer [source: American Academy of Periodontology].

Regular brushing and flossing are small efforts for significant rewards: better health, fresher breath, and a confident smile. These habits might even extend your lifespan.