Ask the UNMC College of Dentistry How do hormonal issues affect gum tissue? Is flossing necessary, especially if I brush daily? What causes bad breath and when should I be concerned? Is it possible to brush my teeth too hard? What are the warning signs of gum disease? My teen wants to use whitening strips. Are these safe to use? There are so many options for toothpaste. Does it matter which one I choose for my family? What happens if I brush too hard & how do I find the right balance to manually brush?