Can dentists tell if you don't brush your teeth? The answer is yes. Dentists can tell if you don't brush your teeth by looking for signs of plaque and tartar buildup. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth when you don't brush. Tartar is a hard mineralized form of plaque that can build up on your teeth over time. Both plaque and tartar can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
In addition to looking for signs of plaque and tartar buildup, dentists can also tell if you don't brush your teeth by looking at the condition of your gums. Healthy gums are pink and firm. Unhealthy gums are red, swollen, and may bleed easily. Bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis, which is the early stage of gum disease. If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, which is a more serious form of gum disease that can damage the bone that supports your teeth.
