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When the new year rolls around, people get antsy to make a positive change in their life. Working out and dieting are common new years’ resolutions, but there’s one thing that can often go underappreciated: oral health.
One of the best things you can do for your oral health, if you aren’t already, is to start flossing. There’s no better way to prevent plaque from building up between your teeth; once you start doing it, you’re bound to notice a difference.
Still, some people have trouble sticking with a flossing habit. If that’s you, here are a few ways you can keep your new years’ resolution to clean between your teeth more often.
Set Reminders
The biggest barrier to forming any habit, especially at first, is simply remembering to do whatever it is you’re trying to do. With flossing, there are a couple of things you can try. One idea is to use your phone’s calendar or timer to set reminders for yourself. Many apps can remind you to do daily chores, and some are even designed specifically for dental hygiene!
If you want a low-tech alternative, leaving sticky notes around can be just as effective a reminder. Try placing one on your bathroom mirror or, if that doesn’t work, on a door you’re likely to walk through often. It may also help to leave your dental floss out in plain sight so that it in itself can serve as a reminder.
Try Floss Alternatives
Some people have trouble getting the hang of flossing, while others just aren’t the biggest fan of putting their fingers in their mouths. If you’re in that situation, you certainly aren’t alone; that’s why there are many flossing alternatives that are just as effective at keeping your teeth clean.
Interdental brushes and oral irrigators are both designed to break up plaque deposits in between teeth as effectively as dental floss, but both tend to be easier for people to use.
Remember Why You Committed
Ultimately, you can’t maintain a new habit if you aren’t motivated, so it’s important to remember why you committed to flossing in the first place. Gum disease is remarkably common, with over 50% of adults having it to some extent. It’s also degenerative, meaning if you have gum disease it’ll only get worse if left untreated.
By flossing, you reduce your chance of contracting gum disease and can prevent it from getting worse if you already have it. With that in mind, remembering to floss will be a breeze. Once you get in the habit, you’ll be surprised at how good you feel.
About the Author
For 20 years, Dr. Francisca A. Sanchez has had the privilege of being able to restore her patients’ smiles to perfection. That, along with her kindness and compassion, is why her patients love her so much. Dr. Sanchez first studied dentistry in the Dominican Republic before moving to the U.S., where she then received a degree from the Columbia School of Dental Medicine.
If you have any questions about flossing, she can be reached at her website, or by phone at (646) 669-7407.