One of the main things people first learn about oral health is that they need to brush their teeth twice a day. Unfortunately, 25% of adults don’t do that, which increases their risk of tooth decay by 33%. What are the main risks of not brushing your teeth? Keep reading to learn more!
Severe Tooth Decay
If you don’t brush your teeth often enough, it will allow bacteria to eat away at the protective outer layer of your teeth, called your enamel. Once the bacteria gets in, it will start burrowing deeper into your tooth creating a cavity. If allowed to progress far enough, the cavity may reach the pulp of the tooth. This instance may call for the necessity of a root canal procedure.
Gum Disease
Not only do you have to worry about cavities, but the bacteria can form plaque on your gums. In the early stages, you’ll have a reversible form of gum disease called gingivitis. The signs are tender gums that bleed. However, if you get back to a regular brushing routine and regularly visit your dentist, then that gingivitis can be properly combatted.
If not addressed through proper dental hygiene with your dental office, that plaque will harden into something called tartar. This can’t be removed by anything other than dental equipment, requiring the assistance of dental professionals. If the tartar makes its way under the gumline, then that’s when the real problems start. Your teeth can start to loosen due to bone loss, which may lead to tooth loss. Once you’ve reached this stage you are considered to have active periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can be managed through increased frequency of regular dental hygiene visits to arrest the disease, but it cannot be reversed. Don’t allow this health concern to grow and visit a dental team you can rely on!
Other Conditions
Another issue that may occur with a lack of proper brushing and oral hygiene is that the bacteria that attack your teeth and gums can get into your bloodstream through your bleeding gums. This can cause other conditions in your body, including heart disease and even certain types of cancer. Other medical care may be required as well.
As you can see, not brushing your teeth can have a lot of consequences. It saves time and money if brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time. Dental experts also advised that flossing at least once a day is important for proper hygiene and prevention, as well. Practicing these habits can help you enjoy a healthy, luminous smile for a long time!
Are you looking for a dental office in or near Ashland, OR? If so, then look no further than White Dental Studio! Our eco-friendly practice provides all kinds of dental services, from general dentistry to pediatric and cosmetic. Contact us today to learn what we can do for you!
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