Every dentist recommends that you brush your teeth twice a day, but we’ve all been guilty of skipping a brush here and there.

Whether you were too tired, in a rush, or just lazy, skipping brushing just once isn’t that big of a deal, right? Well, not exactly. Here’s what really goes on when you skip brushing:.

1. Plaque Builds Up

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth throughout the day. When you skip brushing, this plaque is left to sit on your teeth. Over time, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist.

2. Bacteria Multiply

As the plaque sits on your teeth, the bacteria in it continue to multiply. This can lead to more serious dental issues, such as cavities and gum disease.

3. Bad Breath

When bacteria are left to multiply in your mouth, one of the first signs is bad breath. If you skip brushing regularly, you’ll likely notice that your breath is consistently unpleasant.

4. Stains Form

Plaque buildup can also lead to stains on your teeth. When you skip brushing, the surface of your teeth is left exposed to all the food and drink you consume throughout the day, which can cause discoloration over time.

5. Tooth Decay

When bacteria are left to thrive in your mouth, they produce acids that can break down your enamel and cause tooth decay. Skipping brushing regularly puts you at a higher risk for cavities and other dental issues.

6. Gum Disease

Bacterial buildup on your teeth can also cause gum disease, which can lead to swelling, bleeding, and even tooth loss if left untreated.

7. Tooth Sensitivity

When plaque buildup and bacteria cause damage to your teeth, you may experience increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.

8. Lengthier Dental Appointments

If you skip brushing regularly, you’ll likely need more extensive dental cleanings and treatments to reverse the damage. This can translate to longer and more expensive dental appointments.

9. Poor Overall Health

Poor oral hygiene has been linked to a number of health issues, including heart disease and diabetes. Skipping brushing regularly can have serious consequences for not just your dental health, but your overall well-being.

10. Guilt

Okay, this one is a little tongue-in-cheek, but it’s still worth mentioning. If you frequently skip brushing, you’re probably going to feel guilty about it. And let’s face it, that guilt isn’t going to do anything to improve your dental health.