Oral hygiene refers to the practice of cleaning your teeth regularly. You need to keep your teeth clean by brushing your teeth and flossing. With this routine, you remove plaque and other harmful residues that could weaken your teeth and put you in danger of oral health problems.
Most people adhere to a good schedule when it comes to brushing their teeth twice a day. But about one-third of dental patients report that they do not floss every day. If you skip flossing, you will see plaque remain between your teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach. Many of these individuals attribute skipping this crucial part of their oral hygiene routine to forgetfulness.
You can take measures to help yourself remember to floss each day which will keep your smile looking and feeling its best. Read on to find advice from your dentist that will aid you in flossing on a consistent basis.
Keep Floss Handy
If you store your floss away in a cabinet or drawer, you might forget to use it since it is out of your sight line. Consider keeping your floss on the bathroom counter near the sink. Then you have a higher chance of seeing this hygienic tool and then using it. The visible reminder can assist you in flossing more often.
If you have a busy schedule, keeping your floss in one set place can seem like a hassle. You can keep a floss dispenser in your purse or pocket so that you can complete flossing on the go if needed. It can also be stored in your car or office for even easier access.
You might also benefit from using floss picks, which employ a string of floss attached to a plastic handle. Many people consider these disposable flossing devices easier to use than traditional string floss. Try these and other flossing tools to improve your oral hygiene routine and better remember to floss daily.
Set a Reminder
If you have trouble remembering to floss when you need to, there are several ways to set a reminder to accomplish this part of your oral hygiene regimen. You can leave a hand-written note to yourself that you can spot easily and then remember to floss.
Many people carry their smartphones with them regularly or wear a watch. They can then use these items to set an alarm that can act as a reminder to floss each day. Convenient flossing tools can allow you to then complete this routine no matter where you are.
Practice Consistent Oral Hygiene
It is easy to remember to complete an activity and turn it into a habit when you adhere to a consistent schedule. You can floss at any time of day. But if you continue to do it at the same time during your routine, you will have a higher chance of remembering to do it.
Adhering to a consistent teeth-brushing regimen can help you floss each day too. Brush your teeth at least twice per day to keep your smile healthy, and floss once a day.