Honestly, I relate way too much to the “floss magician” thing. My youngest used to act like flossing was some kind of medieval torture device—she’d hide the fancy stuff under her pillow or, once, stuffed it in an old sock. At some point, we just gave up on the expensive “kid-friendly” floss and started buying the big multipacks of plain waxed store brand. I swear, if it’s within arm’s reach, she’ll actually use it… sometimes.
We’ve also tried keeping those little single-use flossers everywhere—car, bathroom, even in the TV room snack drawer. Not the most aesthetic, but hey, whatever works. I’m convinced the only reason my kids’ teeth haven’t mutinied is because we’ve made flossing as mindless as possible.
It’s wild how the cheaper options are sometimes the only thing that sticks. Maybe the secret isn’t in the product but in the convenience (and maybe a little bribery, if I’m being honest).
- Totally agree—convenience is a game-changer for kids (and honestly, for adults too).
- In my experience, the “fancy” flosses don’t really matter unless someone has specific dental needs.
- I’ve seen families have more luck with simple, cheap options and just making them available everywhere, like you mentioned.
- A little bribery never hurt—sometimes it’s the only thing that gets my nephew to do it.
- One small thing: I do wonder if those single-use flossers are as effective as regular string, but hey, better than nothing if it means the job gets done.
I’ve wondered about those single-use flossers too, especially since my niece will only use them—she calls the regular string “too wiggly.” My dentist said they’re usually fine for most people as long as you actually get between the teeth and under the gumline a bit. I do notice it’s easier to get kids to use them, which is half the battle. Personally, I still like regular floss for myself, but if the choice is between a flosser or nothing... I’ll take the flosser every time.
if the choice is between a flosser or nothing... I’ll take the flosser every time.
That’s been my approach, too. At my age, dexterity isn’t what it used to be, so those little flossers are a real help—especially on the back teeth. I do wish they made less plastic waste, but honestly, I’d rather have clean teeth and fewer fillings. My hygienist once said the “best” floss is the one you’ll actually use, which stuck with me.
My hygienist once said the “best” floss is the one you’ll actually use, which stuck with me.
That’s honestly the golden rule. I’ve seen folks with perfect technique but they only floss once a week—doesn’t do much good. Those little flossers might not win eco awards, but if they help you reach the molars without a wrestling match, it’s a win in my book. I’ve even had patients use soft picks or interdental brushes instead—whatever keeps things moving between the teeth.