For me, picks made flossing easier after arthritis set in, but they do snap sometimes. I just keep a few extras handy and try not to let it bother me.
Does anyone else feel weirdly guilty tossing out a broken pick? I always wonder if I’m just burning through money, even though they’re not that expensive. And sometimes I’m halfway through and it snaps—then I’m stuck debating if I should just stop or open a new one. Is it just me overthinking it? I do like how much easier they are on my hands, though. Just wish they lasted a bit longer...
I know exactly what you mean about feeling a bit guilty tossing out a broken pick. It’s funny—sometimes I’ll even try to use the broken end for a few more teeth, just to feel like I got my “money’s worth.” But honestly, considering how much easier they are on my hands, especially with arthritis, it feels like a fair trade-off. I remember when I was still using regular floss, I’d drop it or fumble with it and get so frustrated, it just wasn’t worth the hassle.
And sometimes I’m halfway through and it snaps—then I’m stuck debating if I should just stop or open a new one.
That happens to me too. I usually just grab another one, but there’s always that little voice in my head saying, “You’re being wasteful.” It’s a bit silly given how affordable they are, but old habits die hard. I grew up in a household where we saved everything, so throwing out something that seems only half-used still feels strange.
I do wish the picks were a bit sturdier. Some brands seem to snap more than others—maybe it’s the way I’m holding them, or maybe it’s just luck of the draw. Has anyone found a brand that holds up better? I’ve tried a few, but haven’t noticed a huge difference. The convenience definitely outweighs the annoyance for me, though. My dentist said as long as I’m actually getting between the teeth, the method matters less than the consistency.
Another thing I’ve wondered about: does anyone else worry about the plastic waste? I recycle what I can, but most of these picks aren’t recyclable where I live. It’s not enough to make me switch back to regular floss, but it does cross my mind now and then.
Curious if folks have figured out any tricks to make them last longer, or if it’s just something we learn to live with.
I actually switched back to regular floss after a year of picks, mostly because the plastic waste started to bug me. I know the picks are super convenient, but I found a woven floss that’s way easier on my hands than the old slippery kind. Plus, it doesn’t snap as much. I do miss the one-handed thing sometimes, but I guess for me, the trade-off with less plastic just felt better in the long run. Maybe it’s not for everyone, but thought I’d throw it out there.
