Don’t Forget to Floss -
“Brushing only cleans half of your total tooth surface,” says Sally Cram, D.D.S., as Washington, D.C.-based periodontist and a spokesperson for the American Dental Association. In only 24 hours bacteria can accumulate between teeth and under the gum line and cause inflammation. “Receding gums make you look older,” says Dr. Cram. “And the bacteria can travel through your body, causing inflammation in other areas. Studies suggest that this may raise your odds of heart disease, diabetes and respiratory problems.” Flossing, which gets between teeth and under the gum line, is the answer.
How to Start -
Buy waxed floss, which slips easily between teeth, Keep some in your bathroom and some in you purse-and use it daily.