Our culture is obsessed with finding ways to look younger.  Now, it appears that one common bedtime routine can go a long way in helping you retain your youth.  Flossing your teeth every night can fight the effects of aging, according to some health experts.

Flossing is important for removing the plaque between your teeth that can cause gum disease, gingivitis, and other health problems.  It also eliminates bacteria in 40 percent of your teeth surfaces that can cause staining and yellowing, which make you appear older.

Gum disease and gingivitis can create gum recession and bone loss as a result of increased inflammation, bleeding, and tenderness in the gum tissue.  As a result, there will be more spaces between teeth and uneven gum tissue in the mouth.  Bones can also dissolve due to gum disease and gingivitis.  All of these effects can give you an older appearance, which is why flossing is so important in order to maintain a youthful glow.

Flossing is one of the best ways to prevent these effects and stay looking younger.  Even plastic surgery cannot combat these problems once they have taken hold: a recent study found that cosmetic procedures did not have any significant effect on changing the appearance of individuals with bone loss in the jaw, eye sockets, and cheeks.  In other words, prevention is the key to avoiding these problems, which can make you look much older than your years.

A good way to get into the habit of flossing is to do it at the same time every night.  Experts recommend flossing at least once a day before or after you have brushed your teeth.  Dentists also recommend a getting a thorough tooth cleaning every six months.  Your dental hygienist will be able to tell if you have not been flossing your teeth.

Take care of your teeth in order to look and feel younger.