Sometimes, you find yourself wondering about your dental care, trying to figure out how we might respond to particular questions. In these cases, it’s always a good choice to ask us in person (give us a call, we will be happy to set up a time for you to come in). However, there are some questions that you might want to rationalize in your favor but that you already know the answer to. Often times, these are questions upon which the fate of your oral health lies. We’d like to get you thinking with a few examples, so you see what we mean. Remember, when the answer is obvious, go with your instincts.

#1: “Is This Too Hard For My Teeth?”

If you pick up a particular type of food that you’d like to eat and the thought crosses your mind, “Is this too hard for me to eat?” then the answer is likely a big yes. Otherwise, you would not have paused to consider whether it might damage your oral health. When in doubt, move on to something else.

#2: “Am I Brushing Too Hard?”

If you’re wondering if you’re brushing too hard, the answer is always yes. Why? Well, because you should be brushing with a very light hand. If you are brushing gently as we suggest, it would be impossible to consider your efforts to be “hard” or “aggressive” in any way. Lighten up with the pressure to avoid gum damage and you’ll be glad you did.

#3: “Should I Be Flossing?”

The answer to this is always yes and will always be yes. Rumors will come and go, you may sometimes feel like flossing but sometimes not, and you may even try to convince yourself that you can begin some very detail-oriented brushing in its place. However, these details will never change the outcome: You must floss to protect your oral health.