I normally use soft woods like pine, poplar, and butternut for my 3D work. My preferred blade is the #5 FD polar blade. Replace them often. I "try" to cut at full speed which helps minimize blade deflection cause my lateral pushing.
To check my square I use a block of jointed wood (2x4). While making sure you are flat to the table lightly touch it to the moving blade. Then turn the saw off and flip the block over and touch it to the back of the blade. If the blade square it should fit into the kerf. If not it will show you what direction to move.