How many days can you go without brushing your teeth? A lot of people would think that brushing one’s teeth falls under the category ‘basics’, yet a new report says otherwise.
In a recent study by the British Dental Health Foundation, seven million Britons admitted to not cleaning their teeth regularly, while one in every seven confessed that they would not pick up their toothbrushes for two whole days.
Anyone who regularly skips brushing their teeth morning or night is storing up oral health problems for the future such as tooth decay and gum disease – the biggest cause of tooth loss.
BDHF Chief Executive Dr Nigel Carter OBE said: “Anyone who regularly skips brushing their teeth morning or night is storing up oral health problems for the future such as tooth decay and gum disease – the biggest cause of tooth loss.”
BDHF Chief Executive Dr Nigel Carter OBE said: “Anyone who regularly skips brushing their teeth morning or night is storing up oral health problems for the future such as tooth decay and gum disease – the biggest cause of tooth loss.”
Dr. Carter said that the last bushing of the day also coats the teeth with fluoride – the only time that fluoride is not washed away through eating or drinking. Brushing at night before we sleep protects our tooth’s surface further during sleep.
Gum disease may progress without pain, producing few obvious signs, even in its late stages. To keep our teeth healthy, it’s important to keep our oral hygiene in check. Remember to brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste. Regular flossing also keeps out food debris stuck in between teeth that could later on cause tooth decay.
BDHA also recommends reducing consumption of sugary foods and drinks and scheduling regular dental appointments to keep our teeth and gums healthy.
