The bottom line is, we need keep up a good brushing and flossing regime that removes plaque before it builds up. Plaque building up around the gum line will cause gum disease and gum disease is the biggest cause of tooth loss. Inflamed gums due to the build up of plaque will cause bad breath!!
Receding gums are often to do with age and oestrogen deficiency. My new dentist is insisting I use those little brushes that you insert between the teeth along the gum line to ensure that plaque and food deposits don't cause further recession and decay along the gum line.
I have to say I'm quite obsessional about cleaning my teeth these days. I saw some horrors when I was a teenager working with my father in his dental practise - I once had to hold a women's head while he removed her 10 remaining teeth due to gum disease - her teeth had all become loose and the smell of the gum disease was truly awful.
I urge you to brush and floss well ladies. Dg xxxx