As you get ready for New Year’s, you may be thinking of the resolutions you want to make this time around. While some you made in the past might’ve stuck, there are likely a couple that fell through the cracks. You aren’t alone! Many people do the same, especially when it comes to goals around flossing. Here’s why this habit is so important for your oral health and tips to help you stick with it every day in 2026.
Why Is It So Important to Floss?
You might already know the importance of brushing twice a day, as it helps get rid of plaque on the surfaces of your smile. However, this only cleans about 60% of your grin at a time. The other 40% is flossing! This handy habit helps get rid of bacteria between your teeth and underneath your gumline. That way, you can do your best to reduce your chances of decay and gum disease.
How Can I Stick to Flossing During the New Year?
Regardless of how important it may be to floss, it can be hard to go from never doing something to constantly doing it. Instead, you should ease yourself into this part of your oral hygiene. Here are simple tips that you can add to your routine:
- Find Out Why You Aren’t Flossing: For many people, they don’t stick to this habit because they get tired or don’t like to in general. If these are true for you, try setting alarms before bed, so it doesn’t slip your mind. You can also try out water flossers or floss holders that make the job a bit easier for you.
- Make a Realistic Goal: If you never really flossed before, then going in full force to make it daily can be tough. Instead, take it slow and start by doing it twice a week and work your way up!
- Know Bleeding May Happen: Your gums may bleed if you haven’t flossed in a while. Don’t get discouraged by this and quit! Push through, and it should hopefully stop. If not, then it may be a sign of gum disease, so talk to your dentist if so.
Be sure to give yourself a pat on the back as well! Rewarding yourself for your hard work can help motivate you to stay consistent with this habit in the new year. That way, you can show off a stronger smile and keep your oral health in great shape.
About the Author
Dr. Dan Passidomo earned his dental degree from the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry. He now has nearly 30 years of experience, which he uses to give the Centerville community the high-quality care they deserve. Dr. Dan is here for your routine cleanings and checkups to catch oral health problems early while giving you advice on your dental hygiene routine. If you want to see how you are doing with brushing and flossing, schedule an appointment or call his office at (937) 886-9935.