Dental care discussions and local services.
hfire92
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RE: How soft is too soft for toothbrush bristles?
That’s interesting - my gums hated the ultra soft bristles, felt like I wasn’t getting anything done at first. Did you have to change your brushing technique too? I found I had to brush a bit longer, but maybe I’m just i...
RE: Braces for kids: worth it or just a cosmetic thing?
That’s actually what got me thinking braces aren’t just about the “perfect smile.” I mean, yeah, straight teeth look nice, but if your bite’s off - even a little - doesn’t that mess with more than just looks? My cousin s...
RE: Brightening your smile without wrecking your enamel
Baking soda’s my go-to too, but I totally get what you mean about the taste - like brushing with salty sand. I’ve tried oil pulling (coconut oil, 10 minutes) and honestly, I didn’t notice much difference in whiteness. My...
RE: How did you pick a dentist for gum reshaping?
That’s been my experience too. My first consult, the dentist barely mentioned anything beyond “you’ll look great after!” - which sounded nice, but I had to drag the info out about healing time and what could go wrong. Th...
RE: Tooth Knocked Out At Playground - What Would You Do?
I get what you mean about milk - who actually carries that around? I’ve always wondered if water does more harm than good, but my dentist said it’s better than letting the tooth dry out. The cheek thing freaks me out a b...
RE: ADJUSTING TO A MOUTH FULL OF NEW HARDWARE: A DAILY TALE
I get being careful, but I actually stopped using mouthwash on my trays after my orthodontist mentioned it could mess with the plastic over time. Even diluted, some of those ingredients are pretty harsh. I switched to ju...
RE: ADJUSTING TO A MOUTH FULL OF NEW HARDWARE: A DAILY TALE
That’s interesting about the orthodontic water flosser tips - mine seemed to fray pretty quick too, so I wondered if I was just being rough with them or if that’s just how they are. Did you ever try those little interpro...
RE: Why Does Post-Extraction Care Feel Like a Mystery?
The no-straw rule feels weird but I actually followed it, even though I rolled my eyes at first. My oral surgeon was super clear about not sucking on anything (straws, cigarettes, etc.) because it can mess with the clot ...
RE: Pain relief that actually works for dry socket?
That clove paste is brutal at first, right? I’ve always wondered - did anyone here try just regular over-the-counter painkillers for dry socket, like ibuprofen or Tylenol? Did it even touch the pain, or is the dentist’s ...
RE: Creamy, Gritty, or Gel? What’s Your Toothpaste Texture Go-To
Interesting your dentist wasn’t too fussed about creamy vs gel. I’ve actually noticed gels feel a bit “slippery” to me, like they don’t coat my teeth as well as the creamier ones. Anyone else get that sensation, or is it...
RE: Which is easier: healing from a simple extraction or a surgical one?
I totally get the paranoia about stitches - felt like I was going to sneeze and unravel everything. Did anyone else keep checking their mouth with a flashlight every hour? I swear, the mind games are worse than the swell...
RE: Is It Okay to Suck My Thumb at Bedtime?
That’s a smart idea. I used to clench my jaw at night and switching to a mouthguard really helped. Habits can be stubborn, but small changes add up over time. No shame in needing comfort.
RE: Finally stopped my teeth from wiggling - here’s what worked for me
I hear you on the mouthwash thing - honestly, I’ve never noticed a huge difference either, besides that quick fresh feeling. My dentist once said unless it’s a prescription rinse for gum issues, most over-the-counter one...
RE: Keeping Teeth Clean Without Breaking the Bank: My Cheap Floss Routine
That’s spot on. My youngest flat-out refused to floss until we switched to a softer, shred-resistant brand. It wasn’t even that much pricier - just not the bargain-bin stuff. Now, she actually reminds me if we forget. Di...
RE: Whitening strips and tooth pain: how do you avoid it?
I totally get the worry about stains - braces make it feel like every sip of coffee is a risk. Have you tried switching to a remineralizing toothpaste? I found that helped with sensitivity way more than the basic sensiti...