Totally get what you're saying about the water flosser. I mean, it's great and all, but does anyone else feel like it's just a bit too gentle sometimes? My kiddo has braces, and honestly, I'm always worried something's lurking in there that the water jet just isn't strong enough to dislodge. Maybe I'm overly cautious, but after investing so much time (and money!) into orthodontics, I'd rather not risk cavities or stains.
Our orthodontist actually recommended these little interdental brushes—tiny things that look like miniature pipe cleaners. Have you tried those yet? They're pretty handy for getting around brackets and wires. My son grumbles every time I hand him one, but even he admits they seem to catch stuff the water flosser misses. We still use the water flosser daily because it's quick and easy, but those little brushes have become our go-to for peace of mind.
Also, quick tip from experience: watch out for popcorn kernels. Learned that one the hard way after movie night... spent a good half-hour trying to fish one out from behind a bracket. Not fun at all.
Anyway, glad to hear we're not alone in being extra cautious about this stuff. Braces maintenance is definitely more involved than I expected when we started this journey.
"watch out for popcorn kernels. Learned that one the hard way after movie night..."
Haha, popcorn is definitely the enemy with braces—I learned that lesson too. Those interdental brushes saved me more times than I can count, especially after meals out. Water flossers are handy, but nothing beats those tiny brushes for peace of mind.
Those little brushes really are lifesavers. I remember trying to discreetly fish out spinach bits during dinner with friends... not my finest moment, haha. But trust me, you'll get the hang of it soon enough—it becomes second nature after a while.
Haha, spinach is the worst offender! I once spent half a date subtly trying to dislodge a stubborn sesame seed... talk about awkward. But you're right, eventually it just becomes routine and you barely even think about it anymore. Hang in there!
Spinach and sesame seeds are notorious, but wait till you encounter chia seeds—those tiny things wedge themselves everywhere. Had a patient once who joked she needed a pressure washer after breakfast smoothies... you're doing great though, it really does become second nature after a while.
