Floss Your Teeth For Better Health And Gain 6 Years

We really hope, and like to assume, that you are flossing your teeth, at least once before you go to sleep at night. But the sad facts show that only 5-10% of Americans are regular flossers.

This is our beauty tip today: If your floss your teeth daily, you can add some 6 years to your life. That's what one researcher claims. Michael Roizen, MD, author of RealAge, says you can add 6.4 years, to be exact. In his book, Roizen lists flossing as one of the most important daily activities -- along with exercise and quitting smoking -- that could extend life span.

Don't believe it? Well, even if the stats aren't perfectly etched in stone, flossing teeth does a world of good for your health:

1. Flossing keeps your teeth looking bright and clean. Do you want everyone to see you had spinach lasagna for lunch? It gets rid of plaque buildup.

2. Flossing removes bacteria that can lead to inflamation.

3. Flossing maintains good gum health and avoids gingivitis and periodontis. And we all need great gums because, gum tissues are common sites for inflammation, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

4. Flossing prevents tooth decay.

5. Flossing helps guard against bad breath.

According to Fun Dental Facts, flossing is just not what people want to do.

73% of Americans would rather go grocery shopping than floss.

In 1994 a prison inmate in West Virginia braided floss into a rope, scaled the wall and escaped. We love that one!

There are so many dental flosses to choose from. Waxed. Unwaxed. Thick. Thin. Minty flavored. Unflavored. Supermarket brand. Expensive brand. There really is no excuse not to regularly floss.

Of course, there is no attractive way to do it....er, floss. But it can be done in private. The little plastic container dental floss comes in, is so convenient and small. You can tuck it away in your purse, car, pocket.

You really have no excuse. It's time to floss. Everyone notices a beautiful, clean smile.