u/blossaurelia

I am 28M and I match well with people on apps. The texting is usually fun and we seem to have good chemistry. But when we meet in person for the first date the conversation often feels forced after the first twenty minutes. I ask about their job hobbies and travel but the responses are sometimes short and they do not ask me much back. It makes the date feel one sided and awkward even when there seems to be potential.

I went on a date last week that started strong with laughs and good eye contact but then it got quiet and I ended up carrying most of the talk. I want to get better at this so I can show my real personality instead of feeling stressed about keeping things going.

What question types or approaches have helped you keep first dates engaging and balanced? How do you handle it when the energy drops without forcing it too much?

Dentists and ads constantly push electric toothbrushes as a big upgrade that removes way more plaque and prevents cavities better than manual brushing. I have been using one for the past year and my teeth do feel cleaner but I am not sure if it is worth the extra cost long term. Friends who stick with regular brushes seem to have just as good dental checkups. Is the difference actually significant or is this complete bullshit?