Struggle Care

15: When Brushing Your Teeth is Hard with Dr. Taylor McFarland DDS

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Dental hygiene is a Struggle Care issue that elicits very strong feelings, as evidenced by the number of responses I receive to any social media post on this topic. Why do so many people feel strongly about brushing their teeth? Let’s talk about it with today’s guest!

Taylor McFarland is a pediatric dentist, wife, and mother who creates content on social media about dental care. She and I follow each other on TikTok, and I knew she was the perfect person to help us dive into the problem of why brushing teeth is a big Struggle Care topic for many people. 

Show Highlights:

  • How Dr. Taylor, as a pediatric dentist, came to the unique viewpoint of understanding why mental health issues cause people to struggle with teeth brushing
  • Why everyone who experiences this struggle thinks they are THE ONLY ONE
  • Helpful tips on how to find a dentist who will most likely be more understanding
  • Why it helps to be honest about your specific barriers to brushing
  • The purpose behind brushing—and why it’s OK to skip the toothpaste!
  • How to “pick the pain” that will increase your functioning
  • The purpose of toothpaste–(Fluoride is the key!)
  • Why sodium lauryl sulfate is usually the ingredient that bothers most people who have toothpaste sensitivity
  • Dr. Taylor’s tips for people bothered by toothpaste, and toothbrush bristles
  • How apps can make brushing more tolerable, especially with electric toothbrushes
  • Why it sometimes helps to brush your teeth in a different place, like in the shower or the kitchen
  • Why charcoal toothpaste is NOT the best option for daily use


    • Resources:

    Connect with Dr. Taylor: TikTok, Instagram, and Website

     Connect with KC: TikTok, Instagram, and Website (Click the “Hygiene” tab under “Resources” for more information about teeth brushing!)

    Get KC’s book, How to Keep House While Drowning

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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    Struggle CareBy KC Davis
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