Timing to Build a Habit

May 9, 2017

How many of you have ever started a New Years Resolution great, only to have it fall apart two weeks later? Or start a fad diet for a few days before totally forgetting it existed?


Fortunately this is a common question that people have been pondering for decades. One of the first books published on this topic was from 1960, by a cosmetic surgeon named Dr. Maxwell Martz. He would focus on how long it took people to get used to a new nose or stop missing a ‘phantom limb’ after an amputation. He used these observations from his practice to determine that it took 21 days to build up a habit. His book sold 30 million copies and became the basis for many motivational speakers’ lectures on formation of good habits.


However, another more recent study refuted the brevity of that timespan. The problem, author Lally and her team argued, was that people misquoted Dr. Martz and changed “it takes a minimum of 21 days” to “it takes 21 days” to establish a habit. This team had 96 people attempt a new habit and record the results in a journal over a 12 week span. These habits ranged from having water at lunch instead of soda to doing 50 pushups first thing in the morning. The timing to develop a new habit ranged from 18 to 254 days, with the average being determined at 66 days.


The range in the results resulted from different variables – such as how difficult the task was. Another factor that can affect it is what type of person you are – are you strict and fastidious or impulsive and lazy? These can all affect how long it takes a conscious, concerted effort to be transported to your subconscious brain.


A perfect example of this is your oral homecare. Most people don’t even think about brushing their teeth, when in reality it is a somewhat difficult and coordinated motor skill. This is because most people practiced this everyday as young children, while the brain still has a great deal of plasticity. Flossing, on the other hand, may not be as widely encouraged. This results in adults that all of a sudden have to develop a daily skill to keep in between their teeth clean. So just two short months of practicing flossing everyday can result in a healthy, happy mouth for the rest of your life.

The post Timing to Build a Habit appeared first on Stephens Dentistry.

June 24, 2025
Pregnancy is a time of excitement, anticipation, and transformation. As your body adapts to nurture new life, your needs evolve—including your dental care. At Stephens Dentistry, we’re passionate about supporting expectant mothers through every stage of this journey. Understanding the connection between oral health and pregnancy is not just important for your smile, but for the wellbeing of both you and your baby.  How Pregnancy Impacts Oral Health Pregnancy brings about a surge in hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, which can have a profound effect on your gums and teeth. Many women notice changes in their oral health during pregnancy, including increased sensitivity, swelling, or bleeding gums. These shifts aren't just uncomfortable—they can also signal conditions that need attention to safeguard your overall health. Pregnancy Gingivitis: What You Need to Know One of the most common dental issues during pregnancy is pregnancy gingivitis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , up to 60–75% of pregnant women develop gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. This occurs because hormonal changes heighten the body’s response to the bacteria in dental plaque. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis—a more serious gum infection that can cause tooth loss and has been linked to health risks beyond the mouth. Oral Health and Birth Outcomes The importance of oral health during pregnancy goes beyond comfort and aesthetics. Research has shown a significant link between maternal gum disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight. A systematic review published in the Journal of Dental Research found that women with periodontal disease may be more likely to deliver prematurely or have babies with low birth weights. Although more research is ongoing, the potential connection means that taking care of your gums and teeth is an essential part of prenatal health. Why Dental Care Shouldn’t Wait Some expectant mothers worry about dental treatments during pregnancy. The good news is that routine dental care—including cleanings and necessary treatments—are not only safe but recommended during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists confirms that preventive dental work is important and can be performed safely, especially in the second trimester. Delaying care can allow small problems to become bigger ones, and untreated infections can pose a risk to both you and your baby. If you are planning to become pregnant, scheduling a dental checkup beforehand is an excellent way to get ahead of any issues. Practical Tips for Expectant Mothers Maintaining oral health during pregnancy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to keep your smile healthy throughout your pregnancy: Brush and Floss Regularly: Aim to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This helps remove plaque and reduce your risk of gingivitis. Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on nutritious foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which support both your oral and overall health. Manage Morning Sickness: If you experience vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash rather than brushing immediately afterward, as stomach acid can soften tooth enamel. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and can also help combat dry mouth, which is common in pregnancy. Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Let your dental team know you are pregnant so they can tailor your care. At Stephens Dentistry, we take extra precautions to ensure your comfort and safety during each visit. Learn more about our preventive dental services . Recognizing When to Call Your Dentist While mild gum sensitivity is common, it’s important to reach out to your dentist if you notice persistent bleeding, swelling, or pain. These symptoms could indicate an infection that needs prompt attention. If you develop a dental emergency during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist—timely care is always the best choice for both you and your baby. Supporting Your Health at Stephens Dentistry At Stephens Dentistry, we’re committed to providing compassionate, personalized dental care for every stage of life—including pregnancy. Our team stays up-to-date on the latest guidelines and safety protocols to ensure you receive the best care possible. For more information on how we support our patients during pregnancy, visit our dental care for families page. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, and your smile should be a part of it. Prioritizing your oral health is a gift to yourself and your growing family. If you have questions or want to schedule your next dental visit, contact our office —we’re here to help you every step of the way.
April 29, 2025
Discover the lifelong benefits of restorative dentistry at Stephens Dentistry. Protect your oral health and enhance your smile. Schedule an appointment today.
a man holding his jaw in pain
April 1, 2025
Identify common dental emergencies with Stephens Dentistry. Get essential first aid tips to manage urgent situations effectively. Contact us today for expert advice.
a man sitting in a dentist's chair smiling
March 4, 2025
Explore the latest cosmetic dentistry trends at Stephens Dentistry in Evanston to enhance your smile. Schedule a consultation today for a radiant transformation.
More Posts