"Do you find traditional floss easier on sensitive gums, or does it depend more on technique?"
In my experience, technique matters quite a bit. I've had sensitive gums for years, and gentle, consistent flossing with traditional floss has always worked best. Silicone picks felt awkward to me too... you're not alone there.
Technique definitely plays a big role, but I've found floss type matters too. My gums used to bleed with regular floss until I switched to a waxed, softer one... made a huge difference. Maybe worth experimenting a bit if sensitivity keeps bugging you?
Interesting point about floss types... I've been having similar issues lately and wasn't sure if it was technique or the floss itself. I've always used the standard unwaxed floss (the stuff my dentist hands out), but my gums get irritated pretty easily. How long did it take you to notice improvement after switching? I'm curious if it's an immediate relief or something that gradually gets better over time.
Also, do you think mouthwash type matters too? I've been using a really strong alcohol-based one, and sometimes it feels like it's making things worse rather than better. Maybe switching to something milder would help with sensitivity as well? I might try experimenting like you suggested... seems worth a shot at least.
"I've always used the standard unwaxed floss (the stuff my dentist hands out), but my gums get irritated pretty easily."
I had a similar experience with that standard unwaxed floss from the dentist. For me, switching to a waxed floss made a noticeable difference pretty quickly—within just a few days, I'd say. The waxed type slides between teeth more smoothly, so there's less tugging and friction on the gums. It wasn't an overnight miracle or anything, but after about a week, I definitely noticed less irritation and bleeding.
About mouthwash, I totally agree with your suspicion about alcohol-based rinses. I used one of those really strong ones for years thinking it was doing good, but it always left my mouth feeling dry and sensitive afterward. Eventually, my dentist recommended switching to an alcohol-free rinse that's specifically designed for sensitive gums (I think mine is labeled as "gentle" or something similar). At first, it felt weird because it didn't have that harsh burn I was used to—but after using it consistently for about two weeks, I realized my gums felt way healthier overall. Less redness and irritation for sure.
One thing I'd suggest—when changing your routine—is give each change at least a couple weeks before judging its effectiveness. Gums can be sensitive and take time to heal and adapt to new products or techniques. It's tempting to switch things up constantly when you're frustrated (been there...), but patience really pays off in finding what works best.
Also, technique matters too—try not to snap the floss down hard onto your gums; gently slide it down along the tooth surface instead. Took me ages to realize how important that was! Anyway, experimenting carefully with both floss type and mouthwash definitely helped me find relief from sensitivity issues like yours. Good luck!
Totally agree about the waxed floss—it's a game changer for sensitive gums. Another thing worth trying is tape-style floss. It's wider and flatter, so it glides even easier between tight teeth without slicing into your gums (ouch). And yeah, alcohol-free mouthwash is definitely gentler. I switched a while back and noticed less dryness almost immediately. Like you said:
"At first, it felt weird because it didn't have that harsh burn I was used to"
Haha, same here...felt like it wasn't "working," but my gums thanked me later.
