Flossing can be be a scary word. For a lot of people, it can be difficult to remember to floss daily, let alone at all. Why is it so difficult for us to remember to floss? Why is it that we can remember to brush our teeth but always forget floss? Let’s go over the benefits of flossing and tips for making flossing a habit.
The Benefits of Flossing
Stops Tartar Build-Up
Plaque easily accumulates on your teeth. When it’s left on your teeth they can harden into Tarter. Flossing removes the plaque from between your teeth and stops tartar from forming.
Stops Bad Breath
Food that gets trapped in your teeth and gum line can cause bacteria to form and release an odor. Flossing helps remove the smelly odor from your mouth and keep your breath smelling great.
Better Then Just Brushing
Did you know that 35% of your tooth’s surface is remains un-clean when you only use a toothbrush? The bristles of a toothbrush can only reach certain areas. Flossing allows you to effectively dislodge food and bacteria that gets trapped in tight spaces.
Stops Gum Disease
Gum disease happens when you have inflammation and infection of the gums. Plaque eats away at your gum tissue. This is called periodontal disease. Flossing removes the plaque buildup and bacteria at the base of the teeth so that gum disease does not form.
How to Make Flossing a Habit
Create a Cue
- Place a post-it note on your mirror
- Set a reoccurring alarm on your phone
- Place an object in your lunch box the cues you to floss
Make it Easy
- Keep floss everywhere – in your desk, in the car, and your travel toiletry case, near the sink.
- Try using a flossing stick. This can be less complicated than using floss and could get you into a normal routine.
Take it Easy on Yourself
- Starting off don’t floss every day. Start with once per week. Once you get in that habit, do it 3 times per week. Work your way up to flossing every day. If you get to the point where it has become a habit and you’re not even thinking about it, try flossing after every meal.
Now that you understand the dangers of not flossing try these tips to create habits that will improve your dental health. Start your flossing journey off on the right foot by going to visit the dentist for a dental cleaning.
