I totally get what you mean about the “saving money” bit backfiring. I’ve had the same thing happen—those cheaper flosses just disintegrate halfway through, and then I’m pulling out a new string anyway. Ever try those floss picks with the little handles? I know they’re not exactly eco-friendly, but my kids actually find them way easier (and less gross) than regular floss. Wonder if that’s worth the tradeoff, or am I just getting lazy...
Ever try those floss picks with the little handles? I know they’re not exactly eco-friendly, but my kids actually find them way easier (and less gross) than regular floss.
I hear you on the convenience—my partner swears by those picks, especially for tight spots. I always wonder if they clean as well as regular floss though. Anyone notice a difference in checkups after switching?
I always wonder if they clean as well as regular floss though. Anyone notice a difference in checkups after switching?
I switched to picks for a while when I was dealing with some finger pain, and honestly, I didn’t notice any big changes at my cleanings. The hygienist said as long as you’re getting between the teeth, it’s better than skipping altogether. Has anyone compared the cost over time? Regular floss seems cheaper, but I go through it faster since it shreds sometimes.
I’ve been nervous about switching things up because I always stress over my dentist telling me I missed a spot. But a couple years ago, my hands started aching and I just couldn’t twist regular floss the same way. I tried those disposable picks, thinking they wouldn’t work as well, but honestly, my gums didn’t seem any worse off. The hygienist noticed less bleeding, which was a surprise.
The cost thing bugs me too, though. Picks are pricier upfront, but I’d sometimes waste half a roll of floss when it got stuck or shredded. I ended up buying one of those reusable Y-shaped floss holders and regular floss refills. It’s a little awkward at first, but I don’t go through nearly as much floss now, and it’s easier on my hands.
I still get anxious before every checkup, but so far, no lectures from the dentist. As long as I’m actually flossing, it seems to keep things under control.
That’s honestly really resourceful—finding a way to keep flossing without making your hands hurt more or wasting supplies. I can relate to the anxiety before checkups, especially after I got braces. Suddenly, cleaning between my teeth felt like a full-time job, and I was convinced every appointment would end with a lecture about missing spots.
Those Y-shaped holders are underrated. I switched to one after struggling with regular floss and all the wires in my mouth, and it made things so much easier. It did feel awkward at first, but it’s way less painful on my fingers. Plus, like you said, I use less floss overall.
I get where you’re coming from on the cost too. Dental stuff adds up fast, but it sounds like you’ve found a good middle ground that works for you and your hands. And hey, if your hygienist is noticing less bleeding, that’s a win in my book.
The nerves before appointments never fully go away for me either… but just actually keeping up with flossing seems to make such a difference.
