Flossing is important but it might not be something you remember to do, even if you do remember to brush your teeth. Hawthorn East Dental has some great tips to help you remember to make flossing part of your daily dental routine.
What Happens if I don’t Floss?
We all eat a variety of foods and drink a range of things such as water, juice, coffee, tea and more. So, it is inevitable that particles we consume get stuck between our teeth.
If you don’t use floss, plaque may build up between your teeth and wear your tooth enamel resulting in decay and cavities. If plaque isn’t removed from the gum-line it can cause gum recession and eventually gum disease.
The greater impact of gum disease is that it can contribute to serious health issues such as stroke, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis or respiratory disease. It simply is not worth the risk so we highly encourage you to brush and floss.
One of the main reasons that people don’t floss is that they find it too time consuming. However, an extra couple of minutes out of your day may mean less hours in a dental chair and our aim at Hawthorn East Dental is for you to have your teeth well into the future and keep your oral hygiene in top condition.
Tips for Remembering to Floss
- Keep more than one floss
Some people keep a floss at work, in their suitcase or handbag as well as in every bathroom in the house. Having floss handy means there is no excuse for not using it. Further, it can be used to keep greens and food particles out of your teeth so when you smile, you don’t have to worry about someone sheepishly pointing to your teeth.
- Set up reminders
Put a reminder into your phone or use a calendar at home. There are many digital devices these days so we encourage you to get creative and find something that works for you and your family.
- Make it fun!
If you have children, you can floss as a family. Young children are led by example so if they see you flossing, there is a greater chance they will too.
If you don’t have children, then put some music on whilst brushing and flossing or listen to a podcast. You can floss whilst having earphones in.
- Use Cues
Many people can remember to brush their teeth and it’s got a lot to do with wanting to smile freely and openly but flossing can be easily missed. Having a cue in the place where you brush your teeth which is also supported by another cue in your bedroom can assist with forming the dental flossing habit.
You can purchase a novel floss holder, put a fun sticky-note on the mirror until the habit is formed and use the cue in combination with a reminder system.
Forming the Flossing Habit is Worth It
Forming the habit may take time but if you have all the right things in place, there is a greater chance you’ll be flossing without even thinking about it.
The most important reason to floss is so you can keep your teeth healthy and your smile beaming. Speak with Hawthorn East Dental for further information on forming positive flossing habits.
