Kaila Mooney, RDH, CDIPC, OMT, has spent 20 years in the dental field, and her path into it started young. As a teenager babysitting for a local dentist, she began working summers as a sterilization technician and hygiene assistant, an experience that sparked her love of dental hygiene. She attended hygiene school from 2010 to 2012 and has worked as a full-time clinical dental hygienist ever since, with a particular passion for educating kids and helping patients with special needs feel safe in the chair. Her own orthodontic treatment and double jaw surgery later reshaped how she thinks about oral health altogether, eventually leading her to become a certified orofacial myofunctional therapist. Here's what she had to say about flossing, patient trust, and the tools that actually change behavior.
Flossing and Patient Education
What's the most common flossing mistake you see patients make, and how do you correct it?
The most common flossing mistake I see is improper technique. Many patients, especially children, simply move the floss straight up and down rather than wrapping it into a "C" shape around each tooth and gently guiding it below the gumline on both sides of the papilla.
I demonstrate the proper technique using traditional string floss, then encourage patients to bring their preferred flossing tool to their next appointment. This allows me to personalize the instruction and show them how to use the product that realistically fits into their daily routine.
What is one thing you wish every patient knew about their oral health?
I wish every patient understood that oral health directly affects overall health. The mouth is a gateway to the rest of the body, and inflammation or active infection in the mouth does not always remain isolated there. Oral health is connected to systemic health in many ways, including the health of the heart and brain. Caring for your mouth is not just about preventing cavities or keeping your smile healthy. It is an essential part of caring for your whole body.
Why do you believe flossing is a non-negotiable part of oral health, and how do you communicate that to patients?
Flossing is non-negotiable because brushing alone cannot clean between the teeth or adequately reach below the gumline. Without flossing, we are leaving behind plaque, bacteria, and food debris in areas where inflammation and decay can begin.
I believe visuals are incredibly powerful when educating patients. I like to show them, using their own mouth, what floss removes even after they have brushed. Once they can see the difference, the importance becomes much more meaningful. From there, we discuss which type of flossing tool best fits their needs and daily routine because the best option is not the same for everyone.
How do you help hesitant or anxious patients build better flossing habits?
I begin by building trust and helping the patient feel safe and understood. Once that foundation is established, we can have a meaningful conversation about why flossing is important without creating guilt or pressure. From there, I work with the patient to find a flossing product and routine that feels comfortable, realistic, and sustainable for their individual needs. Small, achievable steps can turn flossing from an intimidating task into a consistent habit.
Why Kaila Recommends Slate
How did you first discover Slate products, and what made you want to try them?
I first discovered Slate at RDH Under One Roof. I am always eager to learn about new tools and products so I can recommend the best options for my patients. After receiving the Slate Pro Flosser, I noticed a difference, even as a dental hygienist who already flossed every day! I was immediately impressed, and now I'm especially obsessed with the Minis. They go everywhere with me!
Which Slate product do you recommend most often to patients, and why?
Honestly, I recommend all of the Slate flossers. The best choice depends on each patient's individual needs. I recommend them often to patients in orthodontic treatment because the ortho floss heads are compatible with every Slate flosser and make cleaning around brackets and wires much easier. Having gone through orthodontic treatment myself, I can personally attest to how helpful and effective they are.
What sets Slate apart from other oral care products you've used or recommended in the past?
What sets Slate apart is the combination of convenience and effectiveness. The innovative three-in-one floss head design offers more than traditional flossing. It cleans between the teeth, stimulates the gums with flexible rubber gum brushes, and includes a tongue scraper on the back. I love that one easy-to-use product supports multiple aspects of oral health, making a complete routine feel much more manageable.
Have you noticed a difference in your patients' oral health outcomes since recommending Slate?
Yes, I have noticed significant improvements in my patients' oral health since recommending Slate. Often, the key to better results is finding a product that makes it easier for a patient to create a consistent routine. When patients find a tool that is both effective and convenient, they are much more likely to use it regularly, and that consistency shows in their gum health.
I can also speak from personal experience. Using the Slate Electric Flosser during my own orthodontic treatment made cleaning around my brackets and wires significantly easier. Being able to share that firsthand experience helps me connect with my orthodontic patients and confidently recommend a product I genuinely use and trust.
In Her Own Routine
What does your own personal oral care routine look like? Any habits or products you swear by?
My personal oral care routine has changed dramatically since undergoing double jaw surgery. I was previously a strong believer in using an electric toothbrush and loved my Slate Pro Flosser. However, because of lingering numbness and heightened sensitivity after surgery, I have had to adapt my routine.
I now use an extra-soft manual toothbrush with a high-quality toothpaste — Dr. Jen's is my favorite — along with my Slate Mini Flosser with the Ortho Floss Head and a water flosser. Proxy brushes are also an important part of my routine for cleaning areas that can be more difficult to reach. My experience has reinforced that oral care is not one-size-fits-all; the best routine is one that meets your current needs and allows you to remain comfortable and consistent.
What's one thing that might surprise patients about their dental professionals?
One thing that may surprise patients is that I've had cavities too! Dental professionals are not perfect, and even with excellent oral hygiene habits, cavities can still develop. Oral health is influenced by more than brushing and flossing. It can also be affected by the acidity of your mouth, the balance of bacteria in your oral microbiome, genetics, diet, saliva quality, and overall health.
Is there anything else you'd like to share with our community?
My message to patients is that progress matters more than perfection. Oral care is not one-size-fits-all — the key is finding products and routines that work for your individual needs and that you can maintain consistently.
A fun fact about me is that my own orthodontic and double jaw surgery journey completely transformed the way I view oral health. It deepened my passion for whole-body wellness and inspired me to become a certified orofacial myofunctional therapist. My personal journey has truly led to purposeful care, both for myself and for my patients
