Honestly, I’ve seen a lot of people switch to picks, but I still recommend string floss for those really tight spaces—especially between back molars. Picks can be convenient, sure, but they sometimes miss plaque in spots where the string can really hug the tooth. I’ve actually had patients come in with more buildup after switching, even if they’re using the picks every night. Not saying they don’t work at all, but if you’re worried about missing spots, you might want to mix it up or stick with what’s tried and true.
“Picks can be convenient, sure, but they sometimes miss plaque in spots where the string can really hug the tooth.”
I get where you’re coming from, but honestly, I’ve had a different experience. For me, picks actually made it easier to reach my back molars—my hands just can’t maneuver regular floss that far. I do make sure to angle the pick and go gently under the gumline, though. Maybe technique plays a bigger role than we think?
I’ve always struggled with traditional floss, especially once arthritis set in. My fingers just don’t have the dexterity they used to, so those little picks have been a lifesaver for me. I totally relate to what you said about reaching the back molars—there’s no way I could get regular string back there anymore without turning it into a wrestling match.
That said, my hygienist did mention something similar to the original point about picks not wrapping around the tooth as well. She showed me how to kind of “hug” the tooth with the pick, but honestly, it’s not quite the same as when I was younger and could use string. Still, I figure something is better than nothing, and my gums seem happier when I’m consistent—even if my technique isn’t perfect.
I’ve noticed that if I rush or don’t pay attention, it’s easy to miss those tight spots between teeth. Sometimes I’ll still use string on my front teeth where it’s easier, then switch to picks for the rest. It’s a bit of a hybrid approach, but it works for me.
There are probably folks out there who can do a perfect job with regular floss and others like me who need some adaptations. Age or mobility issues really change what “best practice” looks like in real life. The most important thing is finding a way to keep up with it every day—even if it means making compromises here and there.
I guess I’d rather use picks imperfectly than skip flossing altogether because it feels impossible.
That hybrid approach actually sounds pretty smart—using string where you can and picks for the rest. I’ve heard some people also use those tiny interdental brushes, especially if they have bigger gaps or dental work like bridges. Ever tried those? I always wonder if they’re easier to handle than floss picks, especially with arthritis. For me, rotating between tools keeps things from getting monotonous, but I do still miss the feeling of a “perfect” floss sometimes...
Yeah, I’ve tried those little interdental brushes—my ortho actually recommended them when I first got my braces. They’re pretty good for cleaning around wires and brackets, but honestly, sometimes they feel awkward to maneuver, especially if your hands aren’t super steady. Picks are easier for me most nights, but the brushes do a better job in those wider spots. Do you ever find the brushes bend out of shape too fast? That’s probably my only real complaint...
