Struggling to keep cavities away - what’s actually working for you?

Water flossers took some getting used to - I sprayed myself in the eye more than once - but now it’s honestly kind of satisfying.

Haha, I totally get this. First time I tried a water flosser, I legit soaked my shirt and the mirror. Took a week before I stopped looking like I’d just lost a water balloon fight. But yeah, once you dial in the angle and pressure, it’s actually kinda fun? Plus, my dentist said it’s way better for folks with tight teeth (which is me too).

Cutting back on snacks is rough, especially when you’re just bored or stressed. I swapped out chips for roasted chickpeas - still crunchy, but not a total sugar bomb. Cheese and nuts are solid picks, but I do miss the occasional cookie. Gotta say though, my last checkup was the first time in ages with zero new cavities, so the little swaps do seem to matter.

I get the bleeding thing too. My hygienist said if you keep at it, your gums toughen up and it stops. Feels like a grind sometimes, but honestly, anything that keeps me out of the dentist’s chair is worth it. You’re definitely on the right track.

Cutting back on snacks is rough, especially when you’re just bored or stressed.

That’s honestly my biggest struggle. I keep reading that snacking less helps, but I get anxious if I go too long without food, so I end up eating crackers or something just to calm down. I’m also super nervous about using the water flosser - I’ve tried it a couple times but the water just goes everywhere and then my gums bleed a bit. Did anyone else have that happen at first? How long did it take before things felt normal? I’m always worried I’m making things worse instead of better.