What Happens When You Don't Brush Your Teeth?

Many people might not realize that observing strict oral care often proves vital to optimal overall health and longevity. One maintenance practice individuals are urged to follow on a consistent basis is brushing their teeth. At the Islington Dental Clinic in Toronto, we believe it's important to understand that failing to adhere to this simple endeavour could have significant and potentially dangerous short and long-term consequences.



The Systemic Impact Of Not Brushing One's Teeth

The mouth is laden with pathogens like bacteria. Neglecting to cleanse teeth and gums using cleaning agents like toothpaste and mouthwash enables these microbes to flourish and multiply. Moreover, a lack of dental hygiene will allow food particles to accumulate inside the mouth. Said events could lead to the development of tooth-damaging substances known as tartar and plaque. When combined with bacterial overgrowth, these materials pose a major double threat to dental well-being.


Short-Term Outcomes

In the short-term, individuals who do not brush their teeth are at a heightened risk for developing tooth decay. Bacteria, plaque, and tartar grow more difficult to remove and gradually eat away at the various components comprising a tooth. Ultimately, this will lead to tooth decay. However, as the maladies become more pronounced, offending substances can penetrate deep into the teeth and eventually the gums. Said occurrences could contribute to tooth loss and serious gum disease.


Long-Term Issues

Failing to brush one's teeth could have serious long-term impacts including:


Nutritional Deficiencies

Damaged or missing teeth often render chewing difficult. Such challenges could greatly limit the foods stricken individuals consume. An appreciably restricted diet could result in nutritional deficiencies and a host of associated ailments.


Increased Risk Of Diabetes And Cardiovascular Disease

These potentially life-impeding illnesses both thrive on inflammation. Oral ailment-inducing bacteria are capable of spreading to other bodily regions causing inflammation.


Pregnancy Complications

Researchers have found that the children of subjects who did not practice good oral hygiene during their pregnancy have a greater chance of developing oral care maladies as they grow older.


Contact Us

A solid oral care practice and maintenance is relatively simple and involves brushing at least twice per day, flossing after meals, using mouthwash, limiting detrimental vices like cigarette smoking, and visiting us at the Islington Dental Clinic in Toronto for semi-annual cleanings and check-ups. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and be on the right road of maintaining good oral hygiene.