Despite its importance to oral health, flossing is one of the most easily forgettable activities in someone’s busy day. There are a lot of benefits to flossing that you are missing out on each time you forget, but there is no need to feel bad, because you aren’t alone. There’s a large portion of Americans who often forget to floss, and some who don’t floss at all, but the flossing tips offered in this article can help you remember to floss every day and take steps towards improving your long-term oral health.
Set an Alert on Your Phone
Chances are you’re going to have your phone in your hand or near you more often than you’d have some floss. Find what time would be most convenient for you to floss, then set an alarm to go off at that time every day. Just like that, you’ll be reminded each day to floss.
Put a Sticky Note in the Bathroom
You go into your bathroom for a lot more than just to floss, so placing a sticky note somewhere visible in the bathroom can help jog your memory and remind you to floss when you get the chance.
Pair Flossing With Brushing Your Teeth
You probably don’t forget to brush your teeth nearly as often as you forget to floss, if at all. So a good strategy is to tie your two methods of oral care together. If you tie a piece of floss to your toothbrush or place a container of floss near where you place your toothbrush, it can serve as a reminder to floss every time you brush your teeth. Soon enough, you’ll find yourself in the habit of flossing after you brush.
Floss in the Shower
If you aren’t a fan of flossing after brushing your teeth, another strategy is to floss when you shower. Place the floss where you will see it while showering, and you will be reminded each time you bathe to floss. Similar to the tip above, it will eventually become a habit.
Mix it Up
You don’t have to use the plain, unflavored floss. There are many different flavors of floss you can use these days and even different kinds of instruments for flossing. With all the different options around, you’re sure to find something that works well for you.
Keep Floss Accessible
One simple way to remember to floss is to keep your floss easily accessible. Store it in a place where you are most likely to see it, like near your toothbrush, in your bag, or in your car. Having it in a convenient spot increases the chances that you’ll floss regularly, even when you’re on the go.
Track Your Progress
Another effective way to develop a flossing habit is by tracking your progress. Use a calendar, journal, or a habit-tracking app to mark each day that you floss. Keeping a visual record can help reinforce the positive habit and motivate you to continue.
Make Flossing a Family Activity
If you have children or a partner, consider making flossing a family activity. Set a daily flossing time where everyone in the household participates together. This creates accountability and helps turn flossing into a fun, shared routine that everyone can enjoy.
Reward Yourself
To stay motivated, consider rewarding yourself for consistently flossing. After reaching a certain number of days in a row, treat yourself to something you enjoy, whether it’s a small treat, a favorite activity, or a relaxing moment. This positive reinforcement will help strengthen your flossing habit and make it feel like a rewarding part of your daily routine.
Want more flossing tips? Ask us at your next appointment! Schedule your biannual checkup at Beach Dental Center today. We can’t wait to see you!
