Find out what happens to the body when you don’t brush teeth for a month

According to the textbooks, she says, dental plaque has the potential to start the decalcification of dentin — the protective layer under enamel within 48 hours. Thus making it a tiny window before the plaque can destroy your teeth irreversibly.

Tooth enamel weakening, in the form of demineralisation, can start in a week. Plaque buildup can then start to give the mouth a bad odour or halitosis.

The most common association is between bad oral health and heart disease. (Source: Freepik)

Effects on overall health

Our mouth is a gateway to the body, says Dr Arora. So, neglecting oral hygiene not only leads to poor dental health but can affect other organ systems as well. These are: 

Heart problems: The most common association between bad oral health and heart disease is gum inflammation, which releases toxins. These toxins find their way through the bloodstream to reach the heart, where they can lead to endocarditis, clogged arteries, and stroke. 

Diabetes: Inflammation in the gums weakens the body’s ability to effectively use insulin to break down complex sugars and control blood sugar levels. This can result in high blood sugar levels, which, in turn, provide a favourable environment for bacterial growth, creating a vicious cycle. This cycle can be broken by maintaining good oral hygiene.

Respiratory infections: If inhaled, oral bacteria can contribute to the onset or act as an aggravating factor for many respiratory diseases.

Pregnancy complications: Poor dental health is strongly linked to premature deliveries and low birth weight of the baby.

Long-term risks associated with developing conditions like gingivitis or periodontitis

“Not brushing your teeth regularly can lead to serious long-term risks. Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, can further develop into periodontitis, causing gums to recede and expose the roots of your teeth,” says Dr Arora.  

This can result in significant bone loss, causing teeth to become loose and even fall out as the supporting structures of your teeth deteriorate. Chronic periodontitis has been linked to systemic health issues like heart-related issues, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and complications during pregnancy.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.