Last Updated on May 9, 2024 by Shavy Jain
Reusable floss picks is a smart step towards reducing the use of plastic in everyday life. After all, flossing is a very important part of your dental care routine.
But traditional dental flossing threads are typically made from nylon or Teflon, both of which are non-biodegradable and terrible for our planet. With millions of people flossing daily, the amount of discarded floss accumulating in landfills and oceans is staggering. This poses a significant threat to our marine ecosystem.
As plastic pollution continues to pose a significant threat to our planet, the need for eco-friendly solutions has never been more urgent.
Enter reusable floss picks: a sustainable alternative to traditional single-use floss picks. In this guide, we answer all of your questions: What are reusable floss picks? How should you use them? How do you keep them clean? Let’s get started.
The Environmental Impact of Plastic Floss Picks
Plastic floss picks, with their convenience and ease of use, have unfortunately become a significant contributor to the ever-growing plastic pollution crisis. As these single-use picks are disposed of after a single use, they pile up in landfills and find their way into water bodies, where they persist for centuries, wreaking havoc on our environment.
Landfill-bound floss picks not only occupy valuable space but also release harmful chemicals as they slowly degrade, contaminating soil and groundwater. In aquatic environments, these discarded picks entangle marine life, disrupt habitats, and are often ingested by marine animals, leading to injury, suffocation, and death.
Introducing: Reusable Floss Picks
Reusable floss picks are an effective alternative to cheap and disposable floss picks that you’ve been using since ages. These tools get the task done, and are durability and sustainable – what more can you ask for?
Designed with ease of use in mind, reusable picks are really handy for cleaning up gunk, especially in tight or hard-to-reach spots. Most reusable floss picks are typically made of durable materials like plastic or silicone. These materials are designed to withstand multiple uses and are easy to clean, making them suitable for long-term use. Some reusable floss picks also feature handles made of bamboo or other sustainable materials for an eco-friendly option.
Beyond bamboo, other sustainable materials such as stainless steel offers a durable alternative to conventional plastics, ensuring that floss picks endure repeated use without succumbing to wear and tear.
How to Use Reusable Floss Picks
Using reusable floss picks is not rocket science, but they do need specific after care to maintain its longevity. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to ensure you get the most out of your reusable floss picks:
Step 1: Grip the handle of the floss pick securely between your thumb and index finger.
Step 2: Starting at one end of your dental arch, gently guide the pick between your teeth using a sawing motion. Be careful while snapping the floss against your gums and the sensitive area around the arch.
Step 3: Once the floss pick is positioned between two teeth, curve it slightly against the side of one tooth and move it up and down to remove plaque and debris. Floss both sides of each tooth, and pay special attention to the area where the tooth meets the gum line.
Step 4: Continue moving along your dental arch, using a fresh section of floss for each interdental space. Remember to floss both the front and back surfaces of your teeth to ensure thorough cleaning.
Cleaning and Maintenance of Reusable Floss Picks
The cleanliness and longevity of your reusable floss picks is so important if you want to keep them around for longer than a fortnight. Here’s an in-depth guide to cleaning and maintaining your reusable floss picks:
Rinse After Use: Immediately after flossing, thoroughly rinse the reusable floss pick under running water to remove any residual plaque, food particles, and bacteria. This step helps prevent the buildup of debris and maintains the pick’s effectiveness for future use.
Soak and Scrub: For a more thorough clean, periodically soak the floss pick in warm, soapy water. Allow it to soak for a few minutes to loosen stubborn debris. Then, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, gently scrub the entire surface of the pick, including the handle and flossing mechanism, to dislodge any remaining particles.
Keep it Dry: After cleaning, ensure the floss pick is completely dry before storing it away. Excess moisture can promote the growth of bacteria and mold, compromising both hygiene and durability. Use a clean towel or air-dry the pick in a well-ventilated area to remove any moisture.
Embracing Sustainable Oral Care
Sustainable oral care is the rising trend on the horizon, and no, it’s not a fad. As per the Dimensions of Dental Hygiene, there has been a remarkable surge in shift towards sustainability is encapsulated by the rise of eco-dentistry or green dentistry.
Green dentistry, also known as eco-dentistry, is a promise to improve the health of both your teeth and the environment. Dental practices are promoting the minimization of waste by implementing recycling programs, reducing single-use plastics, and widespread energy conservation.
The durability and longevity of reusable floss picks mean fewer resources are consumed in their production and disposal compared to their single-use counterparts. By choosing reusable options, individuals can help mitigate environmental harm and protect ecosystems from the adverse effects of plastic pollution.
Sustainable Smiles With Reusable Floss Picks
Switching to reusable toothpicks is a smart choice, both for the environment and your personal hygiene.By reducing single-use plastic waste, reusable toothpicks make sure that the string of discarded floss doesn’t end up lodged on a turtle’s neck
Not only are reusable toothpicks cost-effective in the long run, but they also encourage sustainable practices and inspire others to make eco-friendly choices.
Ecowiser advocates for simple, everyday swaps that contribute to preserving our ecosystem. Interested in learning more? Explore our blogs on how you can adopt sustainable oral care practices and other eco-friendly products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are reusable floss picks as effective as traditional flossers?
Yes, reusable floss picks are just as effective as traditional flossers, if not more so, as they efficiently remove plaque and food debris between teeth and along the gum line. Designed with sturdy handles and flossing mechanisms, they are easy to use and are often made from eco-friendly materials which are easy on your gums.
How often should I replace my reusable floss pick?
You should replace your reusable floss pick every three to six months or when signs of wear and tear, like frayed floss or a damaged handle, become noticeable. It’s important to have regular inspection of the picks to ensure optimal performance and hygiene.
Can reusable floss picks be recycled at the end of their lifespan?
Whether reusable floss picks can be recycled depends on their materials; some, like stainless steel or certain plastics, are recyclable, while others may not be. Check the packaging or product specifications for recyclability information, and consider eco-friendly disposal methods or alternative floss pick options to minimize environmental impact if recycling isn’t an option.
