Problem Statement M L. M I would like to floss my teeth daily.

I need to improve my flossing routine because: Poor flossing can lead to periodontitis, in which there is an advanced state of gum destruction, thereby causing teeth instability. Some researchers believe there is a link between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease. One periodontist believes that flossing regularly can increase a person’s life expectancy by six years.

Proposed Solutions Incorporate flossing as part of my daily routine—something that becomes as integrated to my day as taking a shower. Place visible reminders throughout this routine that would reinforce this commitment. Involve a partner in my flossing schedule. Make an appointment with my dentist to evaluate the condition of my gums.

Strategy I bought multiple packages of floss and placed them throughout my house as visible reminders. Floss was placed in the shower, bathroom, my office desk, & at the table next to my bed.

Strategy with rationale I posted a storyboard to chart my progress.  This served as a visible reminder. I asked my boyfriend to remind me to floss.  My boyfriend served as an external source of “peer pressure.”

Strategy with rationale Finally, I made an appointment with my dentist to clean my teeth & evaluate my gums midway through the project period.  This was an external source of motivation, because I wanted the dentist to see my progress.

I need to improve my flossing routine because: Poor flossing can lead to periodontitis, in which there is an advanced state of gum destruction, thereby causing teeth instability. Some researchers believe there is a link between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease. One periodontist believes that flossing regularly can increase a person’s life expectancy by six years.

Data collection

Interpretation of Data Collection The longest relapse was partly due to a vacation that took me out of the process improvement “environment.” With this exception, it appears that the strategy is effective—I am flossing on a regular basis, with occasional skips, that don’t indicate a true break in good habits. The most valid indicator will be from the dentist—a visit is scheduled in 3 weeks.

Addendum To correct for lapses that occur during travel, I can plan “check up” dental visits immediately after a vacation. This will “strongly encourage” my flossing habits. I did have a dental appointment on November 7, and the hygenist reported a “marked improvement” in my gum condition.