The new year is the best time to make a change in your life for the better. If there’s something that’s been sitting in the back of your mind, you can use this opportunity to take action on it.
One of the best things you can do for your oral health, and one of the most neglected aspects of people’s dental routine, is flossing. If you aren’t already, a good New Year’s resolution would be to start cleaning in between your teeth. Here are a few ways to stick to that resolution.
Remind Yourself
The toughest thing about building or maintaining any habit is just remembering to stick with it. It’s worth reminding yourself frequently, especially when you first start. There are quite a few apps, timers, and virtual calendars that can help remind you to floss. There are even apps like Habitica that can turn habit-forming into a kind of game!
If you’d prefer a low-tech option, sticky notes can serve as excellent reminders to floss. You can also try leaving your floss out in the open in a place where you’re likely to see it. With all these reminders working for you, there’s no way you can forget to floss.
Try Another Option
Some people struggle to floss for dexterity reasons, or because they just aren’t the biggest fan of putting their fingers into their mouth. Fortunately, there are quite a few alternatives you can use to clean plaque buildup between your teeth.
Interdental brushes and oral irrigators are all just as effective as dental floss, and many people find them significantly easier to use.
Focus on its Importance
At the end of the day, no one can commit to a new habit if they aren’t motivated. If you want to make a change, it’s worth remembering why flossing is so important in the first place.
No matter how rigorous you are with brushing, there’s plaque buildup between the teeth that a toothbrush can’t adequately address. That plaque can easily infect the gums, leading to gum disease and tooth decay.
Once you start flossing regularly, you’re sure to notice a difference. You’ll look better, feel better, and once it’s a habit you won’t even have to think about it.
About Our Practice
The moment you walk into our office at Cross Creek Dental Care, you’ll know that we have your health and happiness in mind. Our incredible dental team will do everything they can to make you feel welcome, and our dentists will take the time to give you the one-on-one attention you deserve.
If you have any questions about how you can take care of your oral health in the new year, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (740) 392-6156.