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For years, every time I went to the dentist, the dental hygienist would tell me “You really need to start flossing daily” and every time I would respond with “Okay!” then promptly forget to do so on purpose. I avoided doing it for several reasons — 1. I hated how messy the process was (dealing with wet, plaque-filled string was just yuck!) and 2. I found it extremely boring. Can’t brushing my teeth twice a day accomplish the same outcome?!
The thing is, every time I went to the dentist I would complain afterwards about the inevitable nagging I would get for my flossing habits (or lack thereof). Then I had a light bulb moment — maybe it didn’t have to be inevitable. Maybe I could try flossing daily and see if it helped. Spoiler alert: It did. Two things that helped me transition from resenting flossing to finding it somewhat enjoyable — 1. I started using floss picks instead of floss string, which in my opinion, are way less gross. 2. I began to prop my phone up on the edge of the back of my medicine cabinet and watch a 20-30 minute Youtube video while I do all of my night time self-care tasks.
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