What Happens When You Only Brush Your Teeth Once a Day?

Brushing your teeth is a cornerstone of maintaining oral health, but let’s face it we’ve all skipped a brushing session at some point. Maybe you were rushing out the door in the morning or too tired to grab your toothbrush before bed. While it might not seem like a big deal, brushing only once a day could have lasting effects on your dental hygiene.

Here’s what happens if you limit yourself to brushing once a day, and why twice-a-day brushing is so important.

How Often Should You Brush Your Teeth?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste for two minutes each time. Brushing more than three times a day, however, can damage your tooth enamel.

While the twice-a-day rule isn’t based on extensive research, it’s widely endorsed by dentists and supported by studies like the October 2016 systematic review in the ‌Journal of Dental Research‌, which found that frequent brushing helps control plaque and gingivitis.

Why Brushing Twice a Day Matters

Brushing your teeth regularly helps remove plaque the sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth. Plaque can harden into tartar, which leads to gum disease and cavities.

Skipping nighttime brushing can be especially problematic: Saliva, which protects your teeth from bacteria, decreases during sleep. Without brushing before bed, bacteria and plaque have hours to damage your teeth and gums.

Potential consequences of brushing only once daily include:

• Cavities: A result of plaque eroding enamel over time.

• Gum disease: Bacteria buildup can lead to gingivitis and periodontitis.

• Tooth decay or loss: Severe plaque can result in permanent damage or the need for invasive dental treatments.

• Chronic bad breath: Lingering bacteria can cause unpleasant odors.

• Systemic health risks: Research suggests oral bacteria may be linked to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease.

What Happens if You Miss a Brushing Session

Occasionally skipping a session isn’t the end of the world. "It’s easy to get back on track," says Dr. Osei-Fosu, a board-certified dentist. She advises replacing your toothbrush and recommitting to regular brushing if you’ve missed multiple sessions.

To prevent missed sessions from becoming a habit, try these tips:

• Set reminders: Use your phone or a sticky note to remind yourself to brush.

• Brush early: If you’re too tired at night, brush after dinner instead of waiting until bedtime.

• Upgrade your tools: Invest in an electric toothbrush, which is more effective at removing plaque, per a June 2014 review in the ‌Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews‌.

How to Build Better Brushing Habits

Here’s how to optimize your brushing routine:

1. Use the right tools: Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

2. Brush effectively: Spend two minutes brushing, covering all surfaces of your teeth.

3. Floss nightly: Flossing removes debris between teeth that brushing can’t reach.

4. Replace your toothbrush regularly: Swap out your toothbrush or brush head every three months.

5. See your dentist: Schedule regular cleanings and exams to catch any issues early.

The Bottom Line

Brushing your teeth once a day isn’t enough to maintain optimal oral health. While life happens and missing a brushing session occasionally is forgivable, making it a habit can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss.

To protect your smile and overall health, commit to brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist for professional cleanings. If you need extra help sticking to your routine, try setting reminders or investing in better dental tools.

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