The reason we brush our teeth twice a day isn’t just cosmetic; the bacteria Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus, flourish on our teeth and gums and cause cavities. Though rotten teeth are usually blamed on sugar the real culprit is bacteria. They live on the food particles left in your mouth and the acid they produce eats away teeth. But get this, those little bugs can travel quite easily from person to person.
In fact, Dr. Irwin Smigel, creator of Supersmile, has seen patients who have clean, healthy mouths- and have never had cavities before- but suddenly have cavities after entering into a relationship with someone who has cavities, gum disease, or hasn’t been to the dentist in several years.
But Time reports that infants and children are also vulnerable to the bacteria, “A 2007 study conducted at the University of Queensland’s School of Dentistry in Australia found that cavity-causing bacteria was found in the mouths of 30% of 3-month-old babies and more than 80% of 24-month-olds with primary teeth.”
Your best bet in preventing the germs from multiplying, dentists recommend rinsing with mouthwash after eating, drinking water throughout the day, and flossing. Check out this chemical-free, DIY mouthwash video:
But beyond all that make sure to brush your teeth twice a day and especially at night because while we sleep, our mouths produce less saliva, which allows bacteria to grow.
Source: Time
