The Consequences of Neglect


If you have ever wondered what would happen if you neglected to brush and floss your teeth, a study was once undertaken in which a group of dental students were asked to give up oral hygiene for 21 days. At the end of the three weeks, all exhibited signs of plaque, gingivitis, and overt clinical inflammation. Without daily flossing, plaque (a sticky, colorless substance that forms daily on teeth) builds between teeth. In as little as two days, plaque can transform itself into a hard substance, called calculus (also known as tartar), which may only be removed with professional cleaning. Then, it may not be long before periodontal disease begins between teeth, where a toothbrush cannot reach.

Did you know?
Toxins produced by gingival infections can destroy the supporting tissues around the teeth, including bone, which leads to tooth loss.

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