Brushing your teeth twice a day is a cornerstone of good oral health. But what if you skip it? As dental professionals know, the consequences build quickly. Here's a timeline based on established oral hygiene science.
Within about 24 hours, a thin layer of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—begins forming on your teeth. No visible damage yet, but the decay process has started.
Read also: '5 mistakes you can make when brushing your teeth'
Bad breath sets in as bacteria multiply, making your mouth feel less fresh.
Plaque thickens, worsening breath and leading to the early signs of gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease with inflamed gums.
Bacteria now attack your teeth and gums, causing redness. Eating sugar spikes the risk of cavities dramatically.
Without brushing or flossing, even saliva promotes tooth decay and cavities—especially with a sugary diet. Gums remain chronically red and inflamed.
Source: Yahoo
