You’re not alone—flossing can be tough when dexterity isn’t what it used to be. Floss picks aren’t perfect, but honestly, consistency matters most. If picks keep you on track and out of the dentist’s chair, that’s a win in my book.
Honestly, anything that makes flossing less of a pain is a win. I used to try with the regular string, but I’d just end up frustrated, especially after a long day. Floss picks aren’t perfect, yeah, but if they get you to actually do it? That’s what matters. I’ve been using them for a while—no shame. Way easier to hit those back teeth without turning into a contortionist.
Some folks say they’re wasteful or whatever, but I figure if it helps me avoid another round of fillings, I’ll take it. My dentist hasn’t complained since I switched, so that’s good enough for me. Consistency > perfection, at least when it comes to dental stuff.
Consistency > perfection, at least when it comes to dental stuff.
That’s exactly where I landed after years of trying to do the “right” thing with regular floss and just…not doing it. I’d start out strong for about a week, then the awkward hand angles and sore gums would get to me and I’d skip nights. Floss picks totally changed that—now I keep a bag in the car and honestly, sometimes I’ll just do it in the parking lot before heading inside. Not glamorous, but it gets done.
I get the waste argument, but like you said, if it means fewer fillings or less time in the dentist chair, that’s a trade I’m willing to make. Out of curiosity, have you noticed any difference in your gums since switching? Mine actually bleed less now, which surprised me. Maybe not perfect technique, but way more consistent.
Floss picks totally changed that—now I keep a bag in the car and honestly, sometimes I’ll just do it in the parking lot before heading inside. Not glamorous, but it gets done.
Haha, parking lot flossing is way more relatable than I want to admit. I always felt like a failure at “real” flossing too—my fingers would go numb and I’d just give up. The picks make it so much easier, though sometimes I wonder if they actually get between my teeth as well as the string does? My gums have definitely stopped bleeding as much, but I’m never sure if that’s the picks or just actually flossing more often. Anyone else get weird looks from people walking by when you’re mid-floss in your car?
I totally get what you mean about the numb fingers—traditional floss always left me feeling like I’d run a marathon with my hands. Floss picks are just way less hassle, especially when I’m in a rush or out and about. About your question, my dentist told me that picks are better than not flossing at all, but they might not hug the tooth quite as well as regular string if you’ve got tight spaces. Still, if your gums aren’t bleeding as much, that’s a good sign you’re doing something right.
I’ve definitely had those awkward moments in the car, too—someone walking by just as I’m mid-floss and trying to act casual. Honestly, I’d rather get the weird looks than skip it and end up with another cavity. Sometimes you just have to pick your battles, right?
