Yeah, I totally get that feeling. I’m always worried I’m missing something, too, especially since floss and water jets aren’t exactly cheap to keep up with. I tried those tablets once—honestly, they’re kind of fun but also a bit much for every day. I just stick to being as thorough as I can and check in with my dentist at cleanings. As long as your gums feel better, that’s gotta count for something, right?
That’s pretty much my approach too—just do the best I can and hope my dentist doesn’t find anything wild at my checkup. I actually switched to a water jet after some gum issues, and honestly, my gums felt less tender after a couple weeks. I still keep some floss around, though, for those stubborn bits. It’s not cheap, but if your gums are happier, I say you’re on the right track. Sometimes it’s just about finding what actually works for you, not what’s “perfect.”
We had a similar experience with my kiddo—traditional floss was just a battle every night, and her gums would bleed like crazy no matter how gentle we tried to be. I finally caved and got a water flosser. Here’s what helped: 1) Letting her pick the “power level” (she loves being in control), 2) Making it a silly game, and 3) Still keeping regular floss for popcorn nights. Pricey, yeah, but honestly way less drama at bedtime. I do worry sometimes that we’re not getting everything, but our dentist said her gums look much better now. Sometimes “good enough” is the win.
Letting kids have some control really does make a difference, doesn’t it? Water flossers can be great for reducing bleeding and making things less of a struggle. They’re not perfect, but if her gums look healthier, that’s a solid win. I usually tell parents—whatever gets them cleaning between teeth is better than nothing. And honestly, mixing it up with string floss on “popcorn nights” is a smart move.
Letting my son pick between water flosser and string totally changed our nighttime routine—less arguing, more actual cleaning. I still sneak in string floss if he’s had something sticky, but honestly, his gums look way better now. Guess it’s about finding what works, right?
