How Bad Is It to Not Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day? (Asking for a Friend)

Letting plaque build up on your teeth can lead to a slew of dental problems: bleeding, tooth pain, cavities, stained teeth, gingivitis, and over time, even loss of teeth. Almost all of these issues are preventable with good oral hygiene, as well as a healthy diet and plenty of water.

“My advice to everyone is to brush your teeth twice a day because you only have one set of teeth for your life,” says Jennifer Jablow, DDS, a dentist in New York City. “It will cost you a lot more in the long run [to fix or replace your teeth] than if you just committed to brushing your teeth twice a day.” Already brush twice a day, but not so into flossing? Find out how bad it is to not floss daily.

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Written by:

Lauren Smith, MA

Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.

Reviewed by:

Mera Goodman, MD, FAAP

Mera Goodman, MD, FAAP, is a board-certified pediatrician. Prior to practicing medicine, she worked as a management consultant.

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