Probably the most enjoyable dental experience that I’ve ever had. Cannot say enough about how friendly and professional the staff were, and the office was absolutely beautiful!
Life gets busy—fast. Between early meetings, school drop-offs, long workdays, and everything else in between, it’s easy for personal care habits to fall by the wayside. One of the first habits to slip? Daily oral care routines. You’re not alone if you’ve ever crawled into bed and realized you skipped brushing. The good news? With just a few simple adjustments, it’s possible to stay consistent without overhauling your schedule.
Here are five practical ways to make brushing and flossing easier to stick with, even on your busiest days.
1. Make Brushing Part of Another Routine
If brushing feels like something extra to remember, try pairing it with a habit you already do consistently. Think of it like a habit anchor: brush right after your morning coffee, while waiting for the shower to warm up, or immediately after washing your face at night.
Linking your oral care to an existing part of your day makes it easier to follow through, because it feels like less of a separate task.
2. Keep Supplies Where You Need Them
You don’t need to limit brushing and flossing to your bathroom at home. Keep a travel toothbrush and toothpaste at your desk, in your car, gym bag, or purse. Having a few extra kits on hand makes it easier to freshen up during a lunch break, after a workout, or before an evening event.
It’s all about accessibility. When brushing is convenient, you’re far more likely to follow through.
3. Don’t Skip—Simplify
Some days are more demanding than others. Instead of skipping entirely, scale it down. A quick brush is better than nothing, and floss picks in your bag can help in a pinch. If brushing right after a meal isn’t realistic, rinse with water to reduce acidity and freshen your mouth.
Perfection isn’t the goal, consistency is. Simplifying your approach on hectic days keeps the habit alive.
4. Use Technology to Your Advantage
Timers, reminders, and apps can help keep oral care on your radar. Many electric toothbrushes come with built-in timers, or you can use your phone’s alarm to cue your morning and evening routines.
Even a two-minute brushing timer can create a sense of closure to the day, and make the routine feel more complete, rather than rushed or forgotten.
5. Turn Brushing Into a Moment of Self-Care
Instead of viewing brushing as a chore, try reframing it as a quiet moment in your day. Use it to reset, breathe, and slow down, especially at night. In just two minutes, you can care for your health, improve your breath, and wind down with intention.
That mindset shift alone can make a rushed habit feel like something worth protecting.
Even on the busiest days, small adjustments can help you stay on track with your oral care routines. You don’t need a perfect schedule—just a realistic one.
We’re here to support you. Schedule your next checkup and let’s create a routine that fits your real life—one healthy habit at a time.
Call Tate Family Dentistry at 301-872-3823 for an appointment in New Market, MD. You can also request an appointment online.