How to Keep Flossing for Your New Year’s Resolution

As 2022 draws to a close, you’re likely thinking of resolutions for the new year. Perhaps you want to focus on weight loss, or maybe you plan to learn a new language. However, have you considered flossing as a 2023 goal? It’d be good if you did, as now’s the perfect time to make this practice a habit. As for why and how to do so, your Kernersville dentist has you covered. Here’s a summary of steps and tricks to help you floss better than ever next year.

Why is Flossing Important?

Of course, you may wonder why you should make flossing a resolution at all. After all, many people consider it an annoying activity that conflicts with more enjoyable things.

Well, the truth is that brushing your teeth isn’t enough for good oral health. There are some places a toothbrush can’t reach, so the tool can’t stop all plaque buildup. As such, you need floss to get into these nooks and remove harmful bacteria (or food leftovers). Otherwise, you’ll raise your risk for cavities, gingivitis, and tooth infections.

How Do You Floss Correctly?

Contrary to what you’d think, flossing isn’t always as simple as it looks. Besides doing it once a day, you must also use the proper technique. Therefore, make sure to use these steps when you floss:

1. First, break off some floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the rest on the same finger of the opposite hand.
2. Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion.
3. After curving it into a C shape against one tooth, slide the floss into the space between the gum and your tooth.
4. Gently rub the floss against the sides of your tooth, moving it away from the gum with up and down motions.
5. Repeat steps one through four on the other teeth!

How Can You Make it a Habit?

To really make floss part of your daily routine, try using the following tips:

• Set a Cue: If you set a phone alarm or put a sticky note on your bathroom mirror, you can set a simple cue to remind you to floss.
• Pick the Right Tool: Other tools can get the job done if you don’t like regular floss. For instance, invest in floss picks or a Waterpik to stay consistent.
• Take Floss with You: If you have hectic mornings, pack a floss container in your bag or desk drawer at work. That way, you can floss on the go if you forget to do it at home.

As you can see, flossing doesn’t have to be an unpleasant chore. With the steps and tricks above, it could become a resolution that brightens your smile in 2023!

About the Author

Dr. Zach Walker is a dentist based in Kernersville, NC, having earned his DDS from the University of North Carolina’s School of Dentistry. He’s also completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) through East Carolina University’s School of Dental Medicine. Given this background, his specialties are preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments, including emergency dental care. Dr. Walker currently practices at his self-titled clinic and is reachable on his website and by phone at (336)-993-3727.