You probably already know that brushing your teeth twice daily removes plaque and bacteria from your enamel to prevent common problems like cavities or injuries. However, if you’re not also flossing, germs can penetrate your connective tissues and cause an infection that may start small but progressively worsens. Eventually, it can spread to your teeth and jawbone, or enter your bloodstream and travel to other areas of your body.
If you’ve resolved to floss more in the new year but are worried about sticking to your goal, continue reading for 3 hints that can help you stick with it!
Tip #1: Pick the Right Product
Do you struggle with wrapping traditional string floss around your fingers or navigating it around each surface of your tooth? If so, why not try an option with a pick handle that makes it easier to manipulate the movement?
Head to any local store and you’re likely to find multiple types of floss or flossers that can effectively help remove plaque and bacteria from your gumline. Whether you prefer a minty flavor or a water flosser that relies on pressurized streams of H2O to clear your connective tissues, you’re more likely to continue flossing if the tools are easy to use.
Tip #2: Set a Timer
If you have good intentions to floss but then get distracted by the many items on your to-do list as you prepare for the day or wind down at night, it might help to set a timer or place visual reminders somewhere you’re sure to notice them. For example, you can post a sticky note to yourself on your bathroom mirror, or set an alarm on your phone with a fun tune that won’t trigger anxiety.
Also, it might help to set a timer to ensure you’re flossing long enough. On average, it should take an adult about 2 to 3 minutes to floss all their teeth in both arches thoroughly. If you’re finishing faster than that, you may need to slow down and look for any areas you regularly miss.
Tip #3: Take Some with You
Have you ever gotten a piece of lettuce or other unsightly bit of food caught in your teeth during lunch? Nothing’s quite as embarrassing as attending a work meeting or hosting a presentation when showing off your leftovers.
Flossing is an easy and effective way to freshen up throughout the day to ensure that your smile remains gunk-free. Plus, the more frequently you run the string over your gums, the less likely you are to bleed. Keeping some in the car or tucked in your desk drawer at work ensures you have some nearby when needed.
These slight adjustments can help you stick with your New Year’s resolution to floss more!
Meet the Author
Dr. Nicholas Rowley has more than a decade of experience helping local families build and maintain happy, healthy teeth and gums. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine at Nova Southeastern University and is now a member of the American Dental Association and several other prestigious organizations. He welcomes patients of all ages and provides a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs at one convenient location. Whether you need basic preventative care or a more complex procedure, he is happy to help! You can request an appointment on the website or call (321) 723-1772.