Growing and getting better at things is part of being human. That’s why so many people set goals for their New Year. One of those resolutions can be flossing more. Cleaning between your teeth on a regular basis is essential for maintaining excellent oral health. Read on to learn more from your dentist about why it is so important and some tips to help you stick with your resolution to floss more!
Why is Daily Flossing So Important?
Daily flossing helps remove plaque from between teeth that your toothbrush alone cannot reach. Fully cleaning the debris stuck in your pearly whites keeps harmful bacteria from building up and causing cavities or gum disease, which can cause tooth loss if left untreated. It also helps keep your breath fresh by removing food particles and plaque that cause bad breath. Additionally, regular flossing can help improve overall well-being by preventing any oral health infections, which could possibly travel throughout your body. And it goes without saying it just feels good to have a free and clear smile!
Tips for Making Flossing a Consistent Habit
As with any change of behavior, you have to have some reminders, motivators, or help to follow through. Here are some helpful tips so you can eventually make flossing as automatic as brushing:
- Set aside time each day— Choose a specific time each day, such as after brushing your teeth at night or midday after your lunch. It doesn’t matter when you do it, as long as it works for you!
- Find an easy way— Make flossing easier by using pre-cut floss sticks or an electric flosser if using traditional dental floss isn’t your jam.
- Keep track— Put a reminder on your phone or set up text alerts so you will be consistent in your commitment. Or try keeping a mini-calendar in your bathroom to see how many days you can floss in a row!
- Reward yourself— Give yourself small rewards when you reach milestones like going two weeks without missing a day. This will help motivate you to keep up the habit.
- Make it fun– Put on some music or watch TV while you’re flossing so it doesn’t feel like such a chore. It can even be a time to dance a little and get those endorphins flowing!
Flossing is an important part of good oral hygiene, but many people don’t make it a priority. The New Year is the perfect time to start making it a daily habit. By implementing one or more of these helpful tips, your healthy smile will shine all year long!
About the Author
Dr. Sung-Hee Lee and her team at Sunny Smile Dental keep the smiles of Dallas bright and healthy all year long! She provides a range of services, including preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. By providing personal care with a family atmosphere, you and your family can count on your oral health to thrive under her care. To schedule an appointment, contact her through her website or call (972) 481-8800.