We all lead busy lives, and sometimes it might seem like no big deal to slip into bed without brushing your teeth. After all, how much damage can forgetting to brush really do? Well, quite a bit!
At Overland Park Family Dental, Dr. Gallagher and the rest of our knowledgeable team advise our patients to brush their teeth twice daily for two minutes each time, along with flossing once daily and visiting our office regularly. These instructions aren’t just to humor your friendly neighborhood dentist. Establishing a preventive dental care routine is proven to reduce or eliminate your likelihood of developing a number of dental conditions, from cavities to gum disease and beyond. In case you still aren’t convinced, we’ll break down exactly what happens when you don’t brush your teeth.
Feeding Bacteria
When you don’t brush your teeth regularly, you are not cleaning out the sugar you consume. These sugars feed bad bacteria in your mouth. As the bacteria break down and process the sugar, they turn it into acid. This acid slowly wears away at your teeth, damaging your enamel (the protective outer coating). The acid can create holes in your enamel, also known as cavities.
Plaque Build-Up
Apart from producing acid, bacteria can also build up on your teeth as they feed on excess sugar. When you don’t brush, bacteria can form a clear, sticky film on your teeth, called plaque. Plaque can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults, so it is important to protect your gums!
The good news is that many dental problems can be avoided with regular care, like brushing your teeth twice daily! If you have any questions about brushing your teeth, our friendly team is happy to answer them. We can also give you a lesson on the proper way to brush your teeth. To schedule your next appointment at our office, contact Overland Park Family Dental today.