I totally relate to what you’re saying about the basics not cutting it. For me, I thought brushing and flossing twice a day was enough, but nope... my gums kept acting up. I was hesitant to spend more money on extra stuff, but after a particularly bad checkup, I caved and bought a water flosser (got a budget one online—nothing fancy). Honestly, it made a bigger difference than I expected. I still use regular floss too, just in case.
One thing that helped me was breaking things down into small steps. Like, I keep my toothbrush and water flosser out on the counter so I don’t forget. I also started using a cheap timer app to make sure I’m brushing long enough, because I realized I was always rushing before.
I still get nervous before appointments, especially because dental bills can stack up if things go sideways. But sticking to this routine has kept things stable for me so far. It’s not perfect, but it’s way better than where I started.
Funny, I’ve actually seen a few folks get a little too excited about water flossers—don’t get me wrong, they can help, but I’ve noticed in my own routine and with patients that they’re not a magic fix. There’s some stuff regular floss just gets better, especially if you’ve got tight contacts between teeth. Sometimes people use the water flosser and think it replaces everything else, and then things start slipping again. I’m a big fan of whatever keeps you consistent, though—if having it out on the counter works, more power to you. But yeah, I’d say don’t ditch the old-school floss just yet...
But yeah, I’d say don’t ditch the old-school floss just yet...
I hear you, but honestly, my kiddo HATED regular floss—like, full-on drama at bedtime. The water flosser was a game changer for us. I know it’s not perfect, but if it means we’re actually getting in there every night without a meltdown, I’ll take it. Maybe not as thorough as string, but at least there’s less bribing and fewer tears... so that’s a win in my book.
Haha, I totally get it—trying to floss a squirmy kid is like wrestling an octopus. I’m with you, sometimes you’ve gotta pick your battles. My youngest actually thinks the water flosser is a toy, so bedtime’s way less stressful now. Do you feel like their gums look healthier since switching? I always wonder if the trade-off is worth it, but honestly, less drama has to count for something, right?
I totally get wanting less drama at bedtime, but I’ve gotta admit, I’m still a little skeptical about water flossers for kids. My dentist said they’re good for rinsing but don’t always get the gunk between teeth like regular floss does. Have you noticed any actual difference in plaque or gum redness? I tried switching for a while, but my daughter’s gums started looking a bit puffy again... Maybe it’s just us, though.
