How to Make Dental Habits Stick

We see so many patients who come in embarrassed about their lackluster dental habits. Whether it is someone who is overly apologetic about not flossing enough or someone who sheepishly admits they’re not brushing for a full two minutes twice a day, there are many people out there who wish they could do better but just can’t when it comes to at-home dental care! Don’t despair; here are some tricks to make your good dental habits stick.

Flossing Routine: Make a Good Habit Permanent

Flossing is the number one habit that people wish they did more. If only they really knew how good it was for their teeth and preventing decay! Think of the food particles that sit between your teeth when you don’t floss. Imagine them staying there day after day creating plaque, bad breath, and infection. Sometimes visualizing the harm being done to your mouth can be enough to help you be a better flosser. It also helps to keep floss with you everywhere you go, or to even set an alarm each day. Think of flossing like taking your daily vitamins or medications. Just do it!

Brushing for a Full Two Minutes

Admit it… you don’t always brush for a full two minutes, do you? Is it one minute? Or even just thirty seconds? We know everyone is on a busy schedule, and sometimes oral health care is at the bottom of your list. Remember though, investing in your teeth and oral health now will pay off big in the future! Don’t just brush to get rid of bad breath or that bad taste in your mouth. Brush because you care about your teeth, you care about yourself, and you care about having a full set of natural teeth way into your old age!

Set Goals

A good habit becomes permanent when you stick with it continuously for a good amount of time. Set a goal to brush and floss like you know you should for just ONE MONTH and see how you feel at the end of the 30 days. You may be surprised at how easy it is to stick with a good habit once you’ve held yourself accountable, even if just for 30 days!

Need more guidance? Schedule an appointment today to discuss your oral health goals with our dental professionals!