I do wonder if the planet-friendly stuff is really worth it if it just irritates your mouth more.
Honestly, if it hurts or stings, it’s not worth it—especially for kids. We tried silk floss once (supposedly compostable), and it was way gentler than the charcoal kind. Maybe give that a shot? Comfort should always come first.
Tried a bunch of the “eco” flosses myself, and I’ve gotta say, some of them really do a number on your gums. One of the bamboo ones actually frayed so badly it got stuck between my teeth—super annoying. Silk has been the smoothest for me so far, but it’s not as strong as the plastic stuff, so it can snap if you rush. I get wanting to be environmentally conscious, but if your mouth is sore or bleeding, it’s just not sustainable for your routine.
I tell folks to put comfort at the top of the list. If you find something that feels good and does the job, even if it’s not the “greenest,” you’re way more likely to keep up with flossing. Maybe try a few different types and see what works? Sometimes it’s just about finding that one brand or texture that clicks with your teeth.
I tell folks to put comfort at the top of the list. If you find something that feels good and does the job, even if it’s not the “greenest,” you’re way more likely to keep up with flossing.
I get where you’re coming from, but I kind of wonder—doesn’t it depend on your technique too? Like, I tried a few “eco” options and yeah, some were rough, but when I slowed down and used a gentle sawing motion, they didn’t shred as much. Have you messed around with how you floss, or is it just the material? For me, even the “comfy” plastic ones can be brutal if I’m in a rush. Maybe it’s not all about the floss itself?
Maybe it’s not all about the floss itself?
I totally get what you mean. I used to blame the floss, but after getting braces, I had to actually learn to slow down and be careful—otherwise it was just pain, no matter the type. Still, some eco flosses get stuck way more in my brackets, so technique helps but doesn’t solve everything for me.
We’ve been on the same hunt for something that’s both gentle and eco-friendly, especially since my kiddo got an expander last year. I totally hear you about the floss getting stuck—some of those “green” brands seem to shred or tangle even with careful technique. What’s worked for us is using those little floss threaders with a waxed (but compostable) floss. Step one: thread it under the wire, step two: slow, gentle flossing, and step three: lots of patience. Still, it’s not foolproof... sometimes it snags, and then there’s the whole meltdown situation.
I wonder if anyone’s had luck with water flossers as an alternative? We tried one, but my child found it ticklish and a bit messy. Curious if that’s just us or if others have found a way to make that work for kids with braces.
