How To Create A Flossing Habit

Woman holding flossers

If you’ve ever talked with our team, you know that flossing is a big priority for us. Why? Well, flossing keeps your gums healthy. And in case you haven’t yet heard how awful gum disease can be, here are some side effects and symptoms:

  • Bad breath
  • Painful, bleeding gums
  • Loose, shifting teeth
  • Receding gums
  • Tooth loss

Some Simple Tips For Making Flossing A Habit

Few people floss daily, even though they’re familiar with the problems of gum disease. In fact, 60% of Americans know they have gum disease. So…why don’t we floss?

It’s because it’s a hard habit to start! So here are some great tips for forming a good habit like flossing, adapted from the Huffington Post:

  1. Pick A Trigger. A trigger helps you remember to floss. In this case, the obvious trigger is brushing, since that’s already a habit. But here’s a tip: floss BEFORE you brush so that you can avoid that “Oh, I don’t have any time left” excuse.
  2. Start Small. And we mean really small. Just get out your floss, and floss one or two teeth. The next day, do a couple more.
  3. Celebrate! Physically pat yourself on the back. Look in the mirror and say out loud “Wow—look at your beautiful teeth. Way to floss like a rock star!” It might feel silly. But your brain is paying attention and it loves the praise.
  4. Focus On The Good. Don’t dwell on things you dislike about flossing. Instead, make it enjoyable for yourself by listening to music, or flossing with flavors and textures that you like. Focus on how good it feels to have your mouth feel so clean.

We offer periodontal therapy and reconstructive procedures for receding gums. However, we prefer to help you prevent gum disease through regular cleanings and informed home care.

If you have any questions about preventing and managing gum disease, ask us! You can comment below, post on our Facebook page or you can always call or schedule an appointment for a more in-depth conversation.

Thanks for being a valued part of our practice!

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