Working flossophy

I went to the dentist today for a regular check-up and cleaning. I was skeptical about this referral — a friend had raved about her dentist (who do you know that’s ever raved about their dentist?!), but this dentist is actually awesome.

I’ve had some cold sensitivity in my back upper right molar for a while which means that ice cream gets eaten on the left. My previous dentist had told me it was due to the wearing of the enamel, which this dentist confirmed, but this dentist also was able to predict other areas on my teeth that were also sensitive to cold! He took his little cold air spray and aimed at certain teeth, asking if it was sensitive, and 100% of the time he was correct, and for teeth I didn’t even realize had sensitivity issues!

Turns out, my enamel is wearing out because I brush my teeth too hard. Lolz. Brushing too hard can wear away the enamel, which is what protects your teeth. I find this funny because well of course my issue is that I’m brushing too hard, thinking that if I just do it a little harder, press a little stronger, I’ll make my teeth cleaner and healthier, when in fact brushing gently and softly will improve my dental health.

It’s an apt metaphor for something I’ve been struggling with — the misconception that working harder means buckling down, gritting your teeth, and forcing out as much effort as possible. Working hard doesn’t mean you have to work hard. Working hard can look like easing up, moving considerately, and working effectively.