According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a whopping 33% of Americans do not floss their teeth. If you’re one of them, don’t worry – with a new year comes a fresh start, and with a fresh start comes an opportunity for positive change. Below, you will find four steps you can take to help you start flossing daily in 2025.
1. Determine Your “Why”
On the days you have to get up earlier than usual or the nights when you’re tempted to get into bed without completing your oral hygiene regimen, you need a strong “why” to keep you motivated. For many, it’s to reduce their risk of gum disease, which is a condition that can lead to everything from tender gums to tooth loss.
2. Find the Right Floss for You
If you are still using a long strand of floss, that might be the problem. Today, there are plenty of alternatives, including pre-threaded floss and water flossers. Just make sure to talk to your dentist before making the switch so they can provide you with important insights, including proper technique. They may even have some recommendations on which brand is best!
3. Create a Cue
Even if you have a strong motivator and the right tools, you may simply forget to floss. The best way to prevent that from happening is by creating a cue. For instance, you can put a note on your bathroom mirror so you remember to floss when you wake up in the morning. You can also set a reminder on your phone at night so you don’t doze off without flossing your teeth.
4. Keep a Small Pack of Floss With You
Keeping a small pack of floss with you is essentially a safety net. That way, if you are going on vacation, visiting family, or working late at the office, you can still commit to your resolution. In fact, it’s a good idea to keep everything you need with you, including travel-sized toothpaste and a toothbrush, so you can keep your breath fresh no matter where your day takes you!
About the Practice
At Main Line Dental Group, our goal is a simple, but important, one: to help our patients keep their smiles happy and healthy throughout the years. That’s why we prioritize preventive care and utilize the latest dental technology, including a digital cavity detection system. We also are available five days a week and welcome dental insurance in an effort to make maintaining a healthy smile as convenient as possible for our patients. If you have a question about your oral health or you’re overdue for your six-month visit, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (610) 971-0717.