I’ve actually wondered about the cost difference over time between picks, regular floss, and those reusable holders. The picks seem cheap at first, but I go through a pack pretty fast—especially since I sometimes snap one or two per session if they’re the thin kind. Regular floss lasts ages for me, and it’s usually under two bucks a roll. But I get what you mean about the hassle of wrapping it around your fingers. Sometimes I feel like I’m cutting off my circulation just trying to get a grip.
On the reusable floss holders—tried one of those when I was trying to cut down on plastic waste and save a little cash. Honestly, mine felt a bit clunky and awkward at first, but after a week or so, it got easier. The weird part was threading the floss each time (not exactly fun when you’re tired), but it did give me more control than the picks. Still, I ended up going back to string most nights just because it was less fiddly. Maybe some brands are better designed than others?
Not sure if anyone else has noticed this, but my dentist said the picks don’t always curve enough to really clean under the gumline, especially in tight spots. I think that’s where the traditional floss wins out. But then again, if someone’s not going to floss at all unless it’s super easy, maybe picks are better than nothing.
I’m still torn on what’s actually most cost-effective in the long run. Picks add up if you use them daily, especially if you’re buying name-brand ones. Floss holders are a one-time thing but can be annoying to clean. Regular floss is cheap but annoying to use... It feels like there’s no perfect answer unless you’re super disciplined about technique and don’t mind spending an extra minute or two each night.
Curious if anyone’s found a way to make regular floss less of a pain? Or is it just something you get used to?
Totally get the struggle with regular floss. I used to hate how it’d dig into my fingers—felt like a tourniquet half the time. Honestly, it does get easier with practice, but some waxed flosses are way smoother to handle. And yeah,
That’s spot on. Consistency matters way more than method, in my experience.“if someone’s not going to floss at all unless it’s super easy, maybe picks are better than nothing.”
“if someone’s not going to floss at all unless it’s super easy, maybe picks are better than nothing.”
Couldn’t agree more with this. I’ve tried to stick with the classic string floss, but my fingers would always end up sore and I’d get so frustrated. Floss picks actually made me stop dreading the whole process—now I don’t skip as often. Maybe it’s not “perfect,” but honestly, any routine you can actually keep up is a win in my book.
Yeah, I’m with you—string floss always felt like a wrestling match with my teeth. Picks are just way less hassle, especially if I’m half-asleep at night. I know some dentists say the string is better, but honestly, I’d skip flossing completely if picks didn’t exist. At the end of the day, doing something’s gotta be better than nothing... right?
I totally get what you mean about the wrestling match. I always felt like I was going to slice my gums open with regular floss, especially when I was tired and just wanted to crawl into bed. Floss picks made things way less stressful for me, too. I know some dentists are a bit skeptical about them, but honestly, if the choice is between using picks or skipping flossing altogether... I’d rather pick the thing I’ll actually do.
I still get a little anxious that maybe I’m not getting between my teeth as well as with string, but at least I’m not skipping it anymore. My hygienist said the most important thing is just to be consistent—she’d rather see me use picks every night than struggle with string once a week. And honestly, my gums have been less irritated since switching. Maybe it’s not “perfect,” but it’s way better than nothing.
It’s funny how something so small can make such a difference in your routine. Sometimes it’s just about finding what works for you—even if it’s not textbook perfect.
