> At a Glance
> – Today’s NYT Strands puzzle centers on “Open wide”
> – Answers include DRILL, FLOSS, MIRROR, FLUORIDE, TOOTHBRUSH
> – Spangram: DENTISTSOFFICE runs left-to-right
> – Why it matters: Quick completion guide for daily puzzle fans
Thursday’s grid is friendlier than recent Strands editions. Once the dental vibe clicks, the words flow fast.
Theme & First Clues
The official hint-Open wide-points straight to a dentist’s chair. Still stuck? The backup clue Brace face nudges you toward oral care.
How to Unlock Hints
Find any three four-letter-plus words and the game drops a themed answer into view. Players used these qualifying words:
- MIST
- SOIL
- RICE
- LICE
- RUDE
- LUDE
- BRUSH
- TOOT
- RIDE
- RIDER
All Answers Listed
Non-spangram solutions:
- DRILL
- FLOSS
- MIRROR
- FLUORIDE
- TOOTHBRUSH
Spangram path: Start with the D five spots down on the far-left column, snake upward, then cruise across to spell DENTISTSOFFICE.
Past Brutal Themes
Among the roughest recent topics:
- Dated slang-toughest word: PHAT
- Thar she blows!-toughest words: BALEEN or RIGHT
- Off the hook-toughest words: BIGEYE or SKIPJACK
Key Takeaways
- Dental theme makes today’s puzzle a breeze
- Five standard answers plus one spangram complete the board
- Every letter gets used once all answers are found
Finish the grid, flash that proverbial smile, and check back tomorrow for the next set of hints and answers.
