It’s January again, so you know what that means – New Year’s resolutions! You’ve likely already put major goals on your 2024 calendar. Among these priorities, though, have you considered oral health? You could always make flossing a New Year’s resolution. If you follow through with it, the habit will greatly improve your teeth and gums. Luckily, your Copperas Cove dentist can make the goal possible. Here’s a primer on flossing and how to stick to it as a resolution.
Why Bother with Flossing?
True, flossing can sound dull as a New Year’s resolution. It doesn’t inspire the same thrill as (say) weight loss or career boosts. However, the habit is crucial to your long-term oral health.
If you didn’t know, a toothbrush alone can’t keep your mouth healthy. It won’t stop plaque buildup in certain hard-to-reach places. That said, flossing can pick up the slack. Dental floss can get between teeth and remove tricky bacteria and plaque. From there, you’ll have a lower risk of tooth decay, gum disease, or worse.
The Steps to Correct Flossing
If you are flossing year-round, you should know how to floss well. The practice won’t boost your oral health otherwise. So, then, remember to follow the steps below:
- First, break off 18 inches of floss and wind it around one of your middle fingers. You should then knit the rest around the same finger of the opposite hand.
- While holding it tightly between your thumbs and forefingers, guide the floss between your teeth. Use a gentle rubbing motion, and don’t snap the floss into the gums.
- When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C against the tooth. Next, gently slide it between the gum and the tooth.
- Rub the floss against the sides of your tooth, moving it away from the gum with up and down motions.
How to Make Flossing a Habit
There are several ways to develop a flossing habit. Notable tips include:
- Take Baby Steps – Rather than floss daily at once, work your way up to that goal. Start by flossing twice weekly and slowly increase the frequency.
- Note the Risks – As needed, remember that failing to floss is risky. Skipping out will make gum disease more likely.
- Reward Yourself –Reward yourself with little treats when you progress in your flossing goals. These might include reading a good book or perhaps an outing with friends.
By noting the facts above, you can make flossing a New Year’s resolution. Should you want more details, though, don’t hesitate to see your dentist!
About the Practice
Benchmark Family Dental is based in Copperas Cove, TX. Led by Dr. Caraveo, our practice provides truly top-quality dental care. We thus offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative options, as well as emergency oral services and dental sedation. Our team also takes time to educate patients on proper oral hygiene! For more details or to book a visit, please reach us on our website or by phone at (254)-547-4866.