Just about every dental association, publication and dentist says that you should brush twice per day—once in the morning and once before bedtime. But is that really necessary? If you understand the reasons behind why brushing is an important part of maintaining good dental health, it may inspire you to make it a more regular part of your daily routine. It may also motivate you to make time to see Dr. Michael Pugh, a Huntsville, AL dentist, for a professional cleaning.

Why Brushing Is Important
Most of the problems that patients have with their teeth are related to food particles and residue that isn't removed from the surfaces of the teeth and around the gumline. If you go long periods of time without brushing, that residue can turn into plaque and eventually into hard calculus that your dentist will have to remove. Calculus and tartar buildup can cause gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss.

Why Brush Twice Per Day?
The American Dental Association (ADA) and your Hunstville dentist, Dr. Pugh, recommend that you brush your teeth a minimum of two times per day. This is suggested for a few reasons: 

• Twice-daily brushing helps keep the bacteria in balance in your mouth.
• Brushing at night ensures that the food you've consumed during the day doesn't stay in your mouth while you sleep.
• Brushing in the morning helps control bad breath and protects the teeth from staining or the development of cavities.

The Benefits of Brushing After Each Meal
Though twice per day is the usual suggestion, for some patients it's actually more advisable to brush more often throughout the day. For instance, if you've been diagnosed with an aggressive periodontal disease or you wear braces, brushing after every meal is advisable to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy and protected.

Schedule a Professional Cleaning
Get a fresh start on a healthy smile by scheduling a professional cleaning at the dentist's office today. Call Artistic Dentistry in Huntsville, AL at (256) 536-3386 to set a time to visit Dr. Pugh, a dentist who is committed to dental excellence.