It's been over 13 years since American chart-topper Jessica Simpson made a rather disive admission about her oral hygiene, and it sent health experts reeling.
During an appearance on The Ellen Show back in 2010, the 'Irresistible' singer confessed her dental 'sin' during a conversation about dating, having split from long-term husband, actor Nick Lachey, in the years prior.
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After discussing the ups and downs of single life, the television presenter host then hoped to address a rather controversial claim she'd heard about Simpson's bathroom antics, wanting to know whether it affected her romantic prospects.
But what exactly could she have said to have caused such a stir in the dental community?
Jessica's controversial confession
"Now, I hate to bring this up, because this may eliminate some prospects, but there's something we learned about you - I don't know how we learned this," Ellen began her interrogation.
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"Oh no, don't listen boys," Simpson teased at the time, before Ellen added: "You don't brush your teeth?"
"Well, not all the time," the hitmaker confessed. "Maybe three times a week, because my teeth are so white, and I don't like them to feel too slippery.
"But I do use, like Listerine, and I do floss everyday - but I don't brush them everyday. I'll use a shirt, or something."
Admitting she knows than others might describe her dental routine as 'gross', the mother-of-three went on to insist: "But I always have fresh breath. It's really weird, but I have great breath."
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Jessica's other no updates since about if she gives her pearly whites more attention nowadays.
Now, some of you might be under the assumption that Simpson's dental decision-making process is rather sound. I mean, it's not like she revealed she never picks up her toothbrush, right?
Apparently, however, failing to regularly brush your teeth twice a day can have some devastating related consequences - aesthetically, romantically and potentially health-related.
Aesthetic consequences
According to the US-based Delta Dental Plans Association, the singer, now 44, is at risk of 'losing her smile' altogether.
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Chris Pyle - director of public relations at the firm - told the Dental Tribute: "While flossing and using mouthwash are certainly good oral health practices, doing these things while neglecting daily brushing is like running around in the shower and calling yourself clean.
"Sure, you feel pretty good afterward, but chances are you missed some crucial spots. And that ‘slippery’ feeling is actually a good thing."
The plaque that Simpson so loyally clings onto turns sugar into acid, which attacks enamel and therefore causes tooth decay - something that flossing and mouthwash aren't capable of fighting off.
Romantic consequences
Pyle said harmful bacteria that remains in someone's mouth if they don't brush their teeth could be transferable via kissing.
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"Sure, at the end of the day, a person thinking about kissing Jessica will need to weigh the risks with the reward," he said.
"In this case, it still might be worth the risk but, come on, Jessica, brush twice a day and the possibilities are endless."
Health consequences
As we say, failing to brush your teeth could also lead to a handful of long-term impacts on your general wellbeing.
Chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter, previously told Pearl Dental Clinic that a lack of routine with your toothbrush can cause several serious conditions, including but not limited to heart disease and strokes.
"A good dental care routine can prevent most dental problems and decrease the need for treatments such as fillings and extractions," he added.
Rhianna Benson