Man, I feel this. Maintenance is like that sneaky boss level no one warns you about. I don’t think it’s just willpower either—our brains really do get bored with the same old routine. I’ve tried every habit app under the sun and still end up falling off after a week or two. Mixing it up helps, for sure. I started putting my floss in random places just to keep myself on my toes, which sounds weird but kinda works. I don’t know if it’ll ever be totally automatic, but honestly, I think it gets easier the more you forgive yourself for slipping up. Perfection’s overrated anyway...
Mixing it up helps, for sure. I started putting my floss in random places just to keep myself on my toes, which sounds weird but kinda works.
That’s actually not as weird as it sounds—I’ve told patients to keep floss in their bag or car if the bathroom routine isn’t sticking. Our brains crave novelty, and honestly, even dental pros struggle with the “autopilot” thing sometimes. I do wonder, though, do you find you skip flossing more when your day’s hectic? I see a lot of people fall off when life gets busy, not just bored. Forgiving yourself is key, but I always say—progress over perfection.
I do wonder, though, do you find you skip flossing more when your day’s hectic?
Definitely. When I’m rushing around or stressed, flossing is the first thing I forget. I tried keeping a pack in my backpack and car, but sometimes it still slips my mind. It helps to remind myself that missing a day isn’t the end of the world, though. Have you found any tricks for those super busy days?
Honestly, I don't think missing a day here and there is a big deal, but for me, the issue is more about consistency than just being busy. If I let myself skip once, it turns into skipping more often... kind of a slippery slope. I’ve tried habit stacking—like flossing right after brushing no matter what—so it’s less about remembering and more automatic. For me, it’s less about time and more about routine disruption. Anyone else find that once you break the streak, it’s hard to get back on track?
