Here’s What Happens If You Don’t Brush Your Teeth, According to a Dentist
Updated: Jul. 25, 2024
One dentist explains, 'Your mouth houses 700 species of microbes.' While not all of these are harmful, failing to brush your teeth can lead to serious health issues.
You’re likely aware that brushing and flossing are essential for preventing plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of periodontal (gum) disease. However, what might not be as widely known is the extensive impact of good oral hygiene on your overall health. What happens when you don’t brush your teeth can lead to not only oral issues such as swollen, red gums, bleeding, pain when chewing, and loose teeth, but also serious complications for your heart, lungs, brain, and more.
This connection largely stems from the ecosystem within your mouth. “Your mouth houses 700 species of microbes, which includes germs like bacteria, fungus and more,” explains Joyce Kahng, DDS, Cosmetic Dentist and former Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Southern California Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry. She continues, “Rest assured, not all microbes are bad—in fact, some microbes are helpful—but it’s important to break up the biofilm routinely to prevent the unwanted microbes from creating an imbalance of the oral microbiome.”
Is brushing once a day enough?
Brushing your teeth once a day is not enough to break up the biofilm in your mouth. To maintain optimal oral health, a consistent hygiene routine is crucial. “You should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes every time to maintain healthy teeth and to help stay cavity-free,” recommends Dr. Kahng. Skipping this routine compromises your dental health and could lead to broader health complications.
Ahead, we share insights from researchers and dentists on what happens when you don’t brush your teeth and the associated health risks.
What happens if you don’t brush your teeth
1. Cardiovascular disease
An increased risk of heart disease is just one of the potential health problems that can arise if you don’t brush your teeth. According to the Mayo Clinic, research suggests that cardiovascular disease, clogged arteries, and strokes could stem from the inflammation and infections oral bacteria cause. Further emphasizing this connection, a June 2023 study published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Scientific Reports found that individuals who skipped brushing their teeth at night faced a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease than those who maintained their nightly brushing routine.
2. Respiratory infections
When you don’t brush your teeth, your risk of pneumonia may increase. This risk is especially pronounced in older adults or those with compromised immune systems. Dr. Kahng cites a 2020 study showing a significant increase in pneumonia risk among individuals with numerous dental caries and missing teeth. Conversely, the risk decreased substantially with better oral hygiene practices, including regular tooth brushing and professional dental cleanings. “The results indicate that improved oral health may reduce the risk of pneumonia in the general population, which reinforces the role that oral health plays in taking care of your overall health,” Dr. Kahng notes.
Supporting this, December 2023 research found that tooth brushing was among the most effective ways to prevent pneumonia in ICU patients.
3. Diabetes
When you don’t brush your teeth, it can lead to complications with diabetes if you have the condition, according to Dr. Kahng. Oral health is extremely important for those with diabetes because gum disease can make it more difficult to control blood sugar. On the other hand, if your blood sugar levels are well-managed, it can help prevent problems with your teeth and gums.
4. Dementia
When you don’t brush your teeth, it can increase your risk of dementia. There is emerging evidence to suggest that the bacteria that cause gum disease may also contribute to the development of brain pathologies consistent with Alzheimer’s disease. These bacteria can enter the brain through nerve channels in the head or bloodstream, leading to inflammation and brain damage over time.
5. Pregnancy complications
When you don’t brush your teeth, it can lead to “adverse pregnancy outcomes,” warns Dr. Kahng. Poor oral hygiene has been linked with premature birth and low birth weight in newborns. This is believed to occur because bacteria in the mouth can release toxins that enter the mother’s bloodstream and reach the placenta, disrupting fetal development. Gum disease can also cause inflammation that may prompt the body to produce more of the fluids that trigger labor, potentially leading to premature birth.
How long can you go without brushing your teeth?
It’s important to brush your teeth twice a day without skipping. Dr. Kahng shares, “I find that a lot of people don’t like brushing their teeth because they experience sensitivity, but there are so many sensitivity toothpastes out there to best fit your lifestyle and oral health needs.” She highly recommends Sensodyne, which is the number one dentist-recommended brand for sensitive teeth.
Additionally, here are some American Dental Association-approved tips to ensure you’re brushing effectively:
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Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, whether manual or electric. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are noticeably worn, matted, or frayed.
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Position your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums.
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Brush gently with short, tooth-wide strokes.
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Make sure to brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of the teeth.
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For the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and use several up-and-down strokes.
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Originally Published: May 13, 2024
