Your mom's flossing trick does sound pretty smart—I might have to borrow that one myself. I've tried floss picks too, and honestly, I had the same feeling as you. They were convenient, especially for quick clean-ups or on-the-go, but I always felt like regular floss got into those tight spots better. Maybe it's just a personal preference thing, or maybe my teeth are just extra stubborn, haha.
And yeah, sugar-free gum has been a lifesaver for me too. My dentist mentioned the saliva thing as well, and it really clicked once I started using gum regularly after meals. It's funny how kids will happily chew gum but act like flossing is some kind of medieval torture device. You're right though—patience and creativity go a long way. My youngest used to fight toothbrushing like it was the end of the world, but now he's finally getting the hang of it. Hang in there... eventually they'll realize we're not just making this stuff up to annoy them!
Regular floss definitely feels more thorough to me too. I tried floss picks for a while, but they just didn't cut it—especially in those tricky back teeth. And yeah, kids and flossing...been there. My daughter used to act like I was torturing her every night, but now she actually reminds me sometimes. Hang in there, sounds like you're doing great. They'll get it eventually.
I hear you on the floss picks—tried them myself and ended up frustrated. Regular floss just feels more effective somehow. Have you or your dentist ever mentioned water flossers? Wondering if they're worth the hype or just another gadget gathering dust...
I've wondered about water flossers too—my dentist actually brought them up last time I was in. She said they're pretty good, especially if you're someone who struggles with regular flossing or has braces or dental work. But she also mentioned they're not exactly a full replacement for traditional flossing, more like a helpful addition. I guess the water pressure can get into spots that are tricky to reach, but it doesn't scrape off plaque quite as effectively as regular floss.
I haven't personally tried one yet, mostly because I'm skeptical about adding another gadget to my bathroom counter (already crowded enough, haha). But my brother swears by his. He says it's way easier for him to stick with than regular flossing, and his dentist noticed an improvement at his last checkup. So maybe there's something to it?
Honestly, I think it comes down to personal preference and what you'll realistically use every day. If floss picks frustrate you (same here, they always snap on me), maybe a water flosser could be worth a shot. Worst-case scenario, it ends up next to the electric toothbrush you bought on impulse and never charged again... (guilty as charged).
Either way, props for keeping up with flossing at all—it's one of those habits that's easy to skip but makes such a difference in the long run.
I was skeptical about water flossers at first too, mostly because my bathroom already looks like an electronics store exploded in there, lol. But I finally caved and got one after my dentist gently hinted (for the tenth time) that my flossing game needed help. Honestly, it's been a game changer for me—way less hassle than regular floss, and my gums feel healthier. Still, I agree they're probably best as an addition rather than a replacement...but hey, whatever keeps us from lying to the dentist again, right?
