Davids blog
the sensitivity solution: how hydroxyapatite can help teeth prone to pain
Do you feel like your teeth are just more sensitive than others? That you’re doomed to deal with uncomfortable sensitivity for the rest of your life? Well, we’re here to give you something to smile about. Not only are we exploring the reasons you might be predisposed to sensitivity, but we’re also reminding you of a critical solution to your sensitivity: hydroxyapatite toothpaste. By addressing sensitivity at the source, nano hydroxyapatite is changing the game for sensitive mouths. No matter the cause (as you read on, you’ll discover there are many), hydroxyapatite is here to provide you with long-term enamel repair and tooth sensitivity relief. genetics’ role in tooth sensitivity Did you know that sensitive teeth can be genetic? Dental pain can range from a minor nuisance to severely debilitating, and genes can play a role in where you fall on this spectrum. Specific genes influence the development of nerve pathways, where pain signals travel from your tooth to your brain. These nerve pathways can differ from person to person, influencing how much tooth pain they feel throughout their day, when they brush, or even during dental procedures (which is why some might require more numbing than others). A common representation of this is redheads! Some research indicates that redheads might be more sensitive to pain, including tooth sensitivity. This is because red hair comes from a mutation to a receptor gene that’s connected to your pain response. Research also suggests that redheads might be less responsive to local anesthetics used in dentistry, and they’re twice as likely to avoid dental work due to bad experiences. Not to fear! If you suspect you’re genetically predisposed to sensitive teeth, just be sure to tell your dentist in advance to avoid bad experiences. You can also brush with hydroxyapatite toothpaste to nurture strong, healthy enamel and provide tooth sensitivity relief. hormonal changes and sensitive teeth Hormones can also play a large role in tooth/gum sensitivity. As an example, estrogen and progesterone increase during pregnancy, which can cause inflammation in your gums, increase blood flow and volume to your mouth, and affect how your body responds to the bacteria in your mouth. All of these factors can make your teeth and gums more sensitive. On the opposite end, decreased hormone production during menopause can lead to dry mouth, decreased bone density, thinning mouth tissue, and weakened enamel. All of these things can lead to uncomfortable tooth (and overall mouth) sensitivity. During times of hormonal changes (from puberty to pregnancy and beyond), it’s important to add our hydroxyapatite toothpaste into your oral care routine to nurture strong enamel, reduce sensitivity, and fight bad bacteria for a healthy mouth. daily habits that may cause sensitive teeth Alongside genetics and hormones, your daily habits can play a huge role in causing/relieving sensitivity. From your diet to how hard you press on your toothbrush, there are so many things that can impact the sensitivity of your teeth. Here are a few! poor oral care habits: plaque buildup and tartar (hardened plaque) are among the most common causes of sensitivity! If you’re not properly brushing and flossing with effective toothpaste (like our hydroxyapatite toothpaste), plaque can remain on your enamel and damage, causing sensitivity. aggressive brushing: brushing too hard, especially with a medium-to-hard bristle toothbrush can erode your enamel. This exposes the sensitive layers beneath and the tubules that lead to your tooth’s ultra-sensitive center nerve. Our bamboo toothbrush is made with high-performance soft bristles to reveal an effective clean without harmful pressure. Our hydroxyapatite toothpaste works to repair damaged enamel and relieve sensitivity by delivering essential fortifying minerals and nutrients that bind to your teeth for long-term benefits. teeth grinding: just like aggressive brushing, teeth grinding can also wear down your enamel over time. Because teeth grinding is often a subconscious habit that occurs during sleep, it can be harder to identify and address. Be sure to take note if you’re waking up with jaw pain, tension headaches, and increased sensitivity in the morning. To understand the causes of teeth grinding and how nano hydroxyapatite can help, check out our previous article here. eating acidic or sugary foods: did you grow up eating/drinking sugary substances? Do you love lemons, limes, coffee, or wine? Over time, these things can weaken your enamel, also exposing the pathways to your tooth’s center nerve. Without repairing that enamel with powerful minerals like nano hydroxyapatite, these foods and drinks can lead to long-term sensitivity. whitening with peroxides: using peroxide mouthwash or whitening strips, gels, and foams can cause sensitivity after a single use. This is because peroxides release damaging free radicals as they work, causing discomfort for your gums, enamels, and mouth tissue. If you’re experiencing sudden tooth sensitivity out of nowhere, it could result from a lingering dental issue (like a cracked tooth or cavity) or even sinus pressure. When you’re sick or experiencing allergies, the inflammation in your sinuses can increase the pressure on your teeth, resulting in sudden sensitivity. solve your sensitivity with Davids hydroxyapatite toothpaste When you use our hydroxyapatite toothpaste daily, you can smile bright knowing you’re providing relief for your sensitive teeth by nurturing strong, healthy enamel. Unlike other sensitive toothpastes that use chemicals to numb your teeth and gums, our hydroxyapatite toothpaste delivers enamel repair and tooth sensitivity relief at the source. Because hydroxyapatite makes up the foundation of your enamel and dentin (the layer right below), the nano hydroxyapatite particles in our toothpaste can penetrate your enamel, bind to it, and fill any holes or imperfections that might expose your tooth’s center nerve. The result is a truly healthier, less sensitive smile. If you feel like you’re someone who has surrendered to having more sensitive teeth than everyone else, give our hydroxyapatite toothpaste a try! It might just be the thing you’ve been seeking to achieve that healthy, comfortable smile. buy now.
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have an appetite for hydroxyapatite? get to know five popular products
It’s no secret that hydroxyapatite is an out-of-this-world ingredient. Developed by NASA, tested by countless scientists, labs, and dental professionals, and taking the dental world by storm (for good reason). With so many brands launching new products formulated with this hero ingredient, things can start to feel a bit overwhelming. How do you know which products to prioritize? Which ones to use daily? Which ones to skip altogether? With so many questions in the air, we want to take some time to discuss and compare five popular hydroxyapatite products. While we won’t be comparing brands (that would take ages), we will be comparing different types of hydroxyapatite products....toothpaste, powder, floss, you name it! We hope this breakdown helps you determine which hydroxyapatite products to add to your daily oral care ritual and which ones don’t belong in the hydroxyapatite hype. brushing up on the various types of hydroxyapatite products hydroxyapatite toothpaste Brushing twice daily with hydroxyapatite toothpaste is one of the best ways to give your mouth a daily dose of remineralizing magic. With hydroxyapatite toothpaste, you can easily distribute the hydroxyapatite particles to every corner of your mouth, even focusing on specific teeth that might feel more sensitive than others. With hydroxyapatite toothpaste, you can also avoid rinsing after you brush to let the paste linger on your teeth for extended remineralization. When it comes to hydroxyapatite toothpaste, of course, we’re biased, but you can smile brighter knowing that our third-party lab tests are not. When stacked up against other leading sensitive toothpaste (some made with hydroxyapatite and some with fluoride), our hydroxyapatite toothpaste proved to be most effective at remineralizing damaged enamel and relieving sensitivity. Check out the results below for yourself! hydroxyapatite tooth powder Tooth powders have gained some traction in recent years, as they are marketed as a sustainable, longer-lasting alternative to toothpaste made with fewer ingredients. While this may be true for some brands, we feel that most tooth powders can be more abrasive, less sanitary, and less user-friendly than traditional paste. Because mineral tooth powder, specifically hydroxyapatite tooth powder, is more coarse than paste (and typically contains other minerals such as sea salt), it might actually be too abrasive for your enamel. Although hydroxyapatite particles are meant to remineralize weakened areas of your enamel, the other abrasive ingredients in hydroxyapatite tooth powder might be moving things in the opposite direction. With tooth powders (not bites) it can be difficult to get the powder in your mouth or on the brush. It’s unsanitary to dip your toothbrush into the powder, so you’d have to: Shake it onto your brush, which feels a bit wasteful. Scoop it onto your hand where you can then dip your brush, which sounds quite messy. Scoop it straight into your mouth, which gives us flashbacks to the viral cinnamon challenge that’s famous for drying out your mouth. No matter the method, we find hydroxyapatite tooth powder to be far less user-friendly than our trusty hydroxyapatite toothpaste. hydroxyapatite floss Hydroxyapatite floss is one of our favorite products to deliver n-ha to the tiniest, tightest crevices of your mouth. Without flossing, you could be leaving 30% of your tooth’s surface untouched, allowing bacteria to wreak havoc on ⅓ of your teeth! But with hydroxyapatite floss, you can feel better knowing you’re catering to 100% of your teeth, delivering fortifying minerals to those hard-to-reach places. Davids hydroxyapatite floss is woven with over 250 strong yet soft threads, allowing the floss to expand as you use it and “grab” even more plaque and debris than other brands. It’s also infused with xylitol (your bacteria-fighting superhero) and cocoa butter, so it can gently slide between your teeth without you having to press too hard. hydroxyapatite mouthwash Adding hydroxyapatite mouthwash into your daily routine is an amazing way to remineralize your enamel, balance your oral pH, nourish your oral microbiome, and freshen your breath. If you still don’t feel super-fresh after your normal oral care routine, consider adding hydroxyapatite mouthwash! Below, we’ve listed some questions to ask as you shop around for one. (By the way, keep an eye out for the brand new Davids hydroxyapatite mouthwash this year, as it naturally checks all of the boxes below.) Is it alcohol and SLS-free? Does it contain xylitol? Does it contain glycerin? Does it contain “natural flavors”? Is it a clear liquid, or is it a vibrant color? To maximize the benefits of your hydroxyapatite mouthwash, pair it with brushing, flossing, and tongue scraping, and don’t rinse after use. You want those hydroxyapatite particles to linger in your mouth, so they can work their remineralizing magic! pap teeth whitening with hydroxyapatite PAP teeth whitening is in a separate category from all of the other products we’ve discussed, as it’s more of a cosmetic product than an oral health product. Not all PAP teeth whitening products contain hydroxyapatite....only the ones labeled as “PAP+” are fortified with hydroxyapatite. Unlike conventional whitening products that use peroxides as the main ingredient, PAP+ products whiten without causing sensitivity. In fact, because they contain hydroxyapatite particles, they actively work to reverse sensitivity as they whiten! PAP+ products come in many forms: whitening strips, gels, mouthwashes, and even toothpastes. Because these products don’t contain (sensitivity-causing, enamel-damaging) peroxides, they’re safe to use more often than the conventional products out there. So you can achieve a bright white smile that feels good too. the Davids difference To sum things up, we’ve compiled a handy table to compare some of these hydroxyapatite products based on some characteristics we value as a brand. . .⌣ Davids n-ha toothpaste toothpaste powders Davids safe floss hydroxyapatite mouthwash PAP+ whitening safe to use daily ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ easy to use ✓ ✗ ✓ ✓ ✓ sensitivity-safe ✓ ✗ ✓ ✓ ✓ Davids-trusted ✓ ✗ ✓ ✓ ✓ As you can see, our (current and future, stay tuned regarding mouthwash and PAP+ whitening) products check all the boxes, and we like to call that the Davids difference. buy now.
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take baby steps to nurture your oral health during pregnancy with hydroxyapatite
Whether you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or reading this article just for fun...congratulations on your interest in the intricacies of oral health during pregnancy! If you are pregnant, you don’t need us to tell you that it can have some unexpected effects on your body. Your delicate oral microbiome is no exception, as it can experience some surprising and confusing changes when you’re pregnant. If you’re surprised that pregnancy can greatly impact your oral health, you’re not alone. A 2022 survey revealed that only about 53% of women received helpful information from their dentists about oral health during pregnancy. That being said, we hope this article sheds some light on the topic and equips you with the info and products (hello, Davids hydroxyapatite toothpaste) to keep your mouth healthy and happy on this amazing journey. pregnancy and oral health During pregnancy, increased levels of estrogen and progesterone can present as a wide array of symptoms. As a common example, surging levels of estrogen during the first trimester can lead to infamous nausea. But perhaps one of the lesser-known examples is pregnancy gingivitis (along with other oral health complications). Yup, soaring levels of estrogen and progesterone can cause inflammation in your gums. While experts haven’t come up with a direct answer for this, they believe it’s because pregnancy can increase the blood flow to your gums while simultaneously slowing your body’s natural ability to fight bad bacteria. On top of this, sugar cravings and increased vomiting can add on a few oral health complications. If you find that your gums appear tender, red, and/or extra shiny during pregnancy, or they’re bleeding a lot more when you brush, you could be dealing with pregnancy gingivitis. Because pregnancy can cause gingivitis and reduce your ability to fight plaque, it can also lead to sensitivity and tooth decay. This is why it’s so important to go the extra mile to care for your oral health during pregnancy. In the next section, you’ll find some of our top tips to do just that! ways to protect your oral health during pregnancy Don’t worry, there are so many safe ways to care for your delicate oral microbiome while growing a human. (And in case no one has told you recently, you’re amazing for doing all the things while growing a human.) Now, let’s dive in. get your routine x-rays and any necessary fillings behind you before pregnancy. (This one only applies if you’re planning your pregnancy, of course). Although most dentists and ob/gyns agree it’s still safe to get dental x-rays while pregnant, why not get all of your dental work sorted beforehand if you can? continue to see your dentist during pregnancy. We hope you’re visiting your dentist for regular checkups every six months! We just want to remind you that pregnancy is one of the most important times to keep up with this good habit. eat a mouth-healthy diet. We recommend lowering your intake of sugary, starchy, and sticky foods and incorporating some of the foods outlined in this article written by Dr. Anu Isaac, DMD. brush twice daily with our sensitive + whitening hydroxyapatite toothpaste. This is one of the most important steps! Brushing twice daily (for two minutes each time) with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste is one of the best ways to avoid plaque buildup, tooth decay, sensitivity, and gingivitis. As our gentle micro-abrasives, baking soda, xylitol, and premium mint oils work together to fight plaque and stimulate saliva production, the hydroxyapatite particles remineralize any sensitive, weakened, or damaged spots in your enamel. floss once daily with our expanding dental floss. Our new safe dental floss is also infused with hydroxyapatite particles, so it can remineralize those hard-to-reach crevices in your mouth. consider adding a natural mouthwash to your routine. For an extra boost of remineralization and bacteria reduction, try adding an alcohol-free natural mouthwash to your routine! Psst, we’ll have a brand new one for you in 2024. You’ll find that many other articles encourage you to brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, so let’s dive into why we prefer hydroxyapatite toothpaste for all your remineralizing and sensitivity-fighting needs (especially during pregnancy). how Davids hydroxyapatite toothpaste can help If you’ve made it this far, you know that keeping up with your oral care routine (with an added emphasis on enamel remineralization) is extra important when you’re pregnant. And when it comes to remineralization, we’re faced with the classic question: hydroxyapatite or fluoride? It’s no secret that we prefer hydroxyapatite, and here are just a few reasons why. too much fluoride can be toxic. When you consider that fluoride hides in your water and toothpaste, it can be easy to over-consume it. Too much fluoride can lead to fluoride toxicity, which is why you’ll find a poison control warning on fluoride toothpaste. We understand wanting to avoid this exposure altogether, especially when you’re pregnant! on the other hand, hydroxyapatite is biocompatible. With hydroxyapatite, you don’t have to worry about overexposure to toxins. This is because it already exists in your body, so when you supplement with hydroxyapatite toothpaste, the particles feel “at home” in your body. research confirms that hydroxyapatite is an effective alternative to fluoride. Some might argue that fluoride is more effective simply because it has the ADA stamp of approval (and it’s dominated the market for so many years). However, research says hydroxyapatite is an effective substitute for fluoride, and you can read more about it in the studies linked below. comparison of hydroxyapatite and fluoride oral care gels remineralization of early caries by a nano-hydroxyapatite dentifrice remineralization potential of new toothpaste containing nano-hydroxyapatite enamel remineralization and repair results of biomimetic hydroxyapatite toothpaste Did you know that our hydroxyapatite toothpaste is also lab-tested? Our specific formula outperformed leading sensitive toothpastes (Apagard Premio, Boka, Colgate Sensitive, Risewell, Sensodyne Pronamel, and Tom’s Sensitive) in remineralizing weakened areas of the enamel. You don’t have to take our word for it, the photo evidence (of real teeth magnified 3000x) speaks for itself! buy now.
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new year, new chance to create an oral care routine that supports your whole body
Another year has come and gone, giving us all a fresh chance to be the best versions of ourselves. When thinking about your resolutions, we want to make sure you don’t brush over your oral health routine. You might already know this about us, but we believe oral health is the window to your overall health. While that can sound intimidating, it can also be exciting! Establishing a new elevated oral care routine in 2024 can open new doors of health, vibrancy, and balance in your life. Don’t believe us? We hope this article brings you to the bright (pearly white) side. why take a holistic approach to oral health? At Davids, we’re all about minimalism. But when it comes to oral health, we know that things are never as simple as they seem. Oral health is not just oral health, it’s the window to your overall health. Your oral microbiome (mouth) works very closely with your gut microbiome to lay the foundations of your overall well-being. Think about it this way: when you swallow (which you do consciously and subconsciously all day long), bacteria, pathogens, and other microorganisms travel from your mouth to your gut. If the bacterial balance in your mouth is out of whack (more bad than good), this can not only lead to plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease, but it can also lead to gut dysbiosis. Dysbiosis in the gut has been linked to whole-body impacts such as cognitive disease, mental health struggles, autoimmunity, mood swings, insomnia, indigestion, acid reflux, acne, insulin resistance, and beyond. At the very least, we know that when bad bacteria take over in your mouth and gut, it can lead to inflammation throughout your entire body. We want to avoid that. To do so, we invite you to “zoom out,” see oral health as a crucial piece of the puzzle, and use it as motivation to align the rest of your self-care routine to nurture the best version of yourself. the oral care core trifecta Now that we’ve covered oral care as part of your overall health, it’s time to cultivate an oral care routine that checks all the boxes. It’s no secret that when flossing, brushing, and tongue scraping come together, the result is greater than the sum of its parts. 1: flossing with safe dental floss Do you really need to floss? The answer is a resounding yes. If you’re brushing over this essential step, your oral care routine might only be reaching 65% of your teeth....leaving 35% of your pearly whites in the dark. The new year presents a new opportunity to start your flossing routine, and our new expanding dental floss is the perfect product to get you started. It’s woven with 250+ soft threads for softness and durability, so you don’t have to worry about shredding as you reach those tight spaces. The threads have the ability to expand, increasing the surface area as you go to grab more plaque and debris in those hard-to-reach places. Our dental floss is also infused with cocoa butter, premium mint oils, and hydroxyapatite for a fresh clean that remineralizes your enamel as you go. As a safe dental floss, it avoids the PFAS (harmful forever chemicals) that are found in many conventional floss brands. 2: brushing with a bamboo toothbrush + premium toothpaste This probably isn’t the first time you’ve heard us talk about the importance of brushing. After all, we are a toothpaste brand! To avoid sounding like a broken record, we’ll leave you with a couple of interesting statistics. A 2023 report reveals that 59% of adult Americans developed better oral care habits during the pandemic, and they plan to maintain them. Yet only 79% of adults reported brushing their teeth twice a day, and 17% of people aren’t brushing long enough. Time and time again, we’ve seen that brushing twice daily for two minutes is crucial for fighting plaque and preventing oral complications like tooth decay and gum disease. We invite you to make 2024 the year you commit to brushing twice daily for two minutes each. Our bamboo toothbrush and premium toothpaste might just be the motivation you need to hone this habit. After all, our bamboo toothbrush is soft, sustainable, and comfortable....and our toothpaste flavors range from delicious peppermint to perfectly sweet strawberry watermelon. 3: tongue scraping with a stainless steel tongue scraper Tongue scraping does a lot more than simply clean your tongue and freshen your breath. Dental Ayurveda states that different areas of your tongue are connected to specific vital organs throughout your body. By using a tongue scraper, you’re directly removing toxins from these areas while simultaneously stimulating the tissue. By association, Ayurveda suggests that this detoxification + stimulation also positively affects the associated organs, restoring inner balance and reducing your overall toxic load. On top of this, tongue scraping can also work to enhance your taste and improve your digestion by promoting a healthy bacterial balance in your mouth and gut. Dental professionals prefer the design of our stainless steel tongue scraper, as it uses 100% medical-grade stainless steel and has smooth, rounded edges. It also has a unique one-handed design, so it’s very easy to maneuver (this is extremely important for a movement that occurs very close to your gag reflex). If you want to start your new year off on the freshest possible note, add our tongue scraper to your oral care routine. Trust us, you’ll feel a difference right away. other important players We can’t talk about holistic oral health without mentioning diet, mindset, and stress. All of these factors play a huge underlying role in the state of your oral and overall health. diet: It can be easy to see how diet impacts your oral health, as your mouth is responsible for chewing and swallowing. It’s no secret that starchy, sugary foods have more of a negative impact on your teeth, while more protein-rich and nutrient-dense foods can improve your oral health. We recommend brushing up on this food guide article written by Dr. Anu Isaac, DMD. mindest: your mindset can play an important role in the success of your oral care routine. In an industry that’s been dominated by the same big brands (and ingredients) for decades, it can feel uncomfortable to question these norms and embrace new habits and ingredients. For example, maybe it feels weird to try tongue scraping instead of simply brushing your tongue. Maybe it feels intimidating to switch to hydroxyapatite when you’ve used fluoride for so long. We understand how uncomfortable it can be to change your habits, but we want to encourage you to remain open-minded and follow the science. stress: when it comes to oral care, stress might not be the first thing that pops into your head. But let’s check in: are you clenching your jaw right now? Do you wake up with tension headaches or a tight jaw? Clenching your jaw due to stress can have a huge impact on your oral health. Additionally, chronic stress can lead to things like dry mouth, which is a huge risk factor for gum disease and tooth decay. We invite you to take a deep breath, embrace mindfulness, explore meditation, and cultivate a mouth-friendly diet in the new year. All of these things can take your oral and overall health to new heights. make 2024 a fresh start The Davids essential bundle includes our bamboo toothbrush, sensitive+whitening hydroxyapatite toothpaste, and stainless steel tongue scraper for 20% off. Just add our brand-new expanding dental floss to the mix (and maybe a travel size toothpaste or two), and you have the perfect holistic oral care routine to start 2024 on the freshest possible note. From the Davids family to yours, Happy New Year! buy now.
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is teeth whitening safe? why you should swap peroxides for PAP teeth whitening
With so many teeth whitening products that immediately cause sensitivity, burning, and bleeding, it’s no wonder many people are asking: is teeth whitening safe? The conventional teeth whitening industry we know today has been dominated by peroxides for decades. The first peroxide-based whitening formulas were crafted back in 1960, and we feel that they haven’t been explored or questioned nearly enough in the last six decades. While these chemical whitening agents are known to get the job done, it’s no secret that they can cause some damage in the process. So, we’re covering some of the reasons peroxides cause so much discomfort while they whiten. We’re also going to discuss some natural teeth whitening alternatives that are starting to steal the spotlight from old formulas full of peroxides and fluoride. These cutting-edge whitening alternatives fuse PAP, an organic acid known for its whitening capabilities, and hydroxyapatite, your newest remineralizing superhero ingredient. Together, these two innovative ingredients work to whiten and brighten your smile without causing discomfort and long-term damage. In fact, they do the opposite by strengthening your teeth to nurture long term oral and overall health. So, without further ado, let’s dive into some ways you can make your whitening routine safer and gentler on your oral microbiome. is teeth whitening safe? Generally speaking, teeth whitening is safe, but there are potential risks. When using these products at home (especially conventional whitening products formulated with peroxides), it can be easy to misuse or overuse the product. We know it’s tempting to think that whitening more often might lead to an even brighter smile, but overuse can lead to some pretty unpleasant side effects. When it comes to answering the question, “Is teeth whitening safe?,” we recommend listening to your mouth. It will tell you when whitening is doing more harm than good through increased sensitivity, gum irritation, bleeding, and more. If it hurts to simply bite down after your whitening session, it might not be too safe after all. No matter what, we recommend consulting with your dentist before you start a new teeth whitening routine! the problem with peroxides Now you might be wondering why some whitening products immediately cause sensitivity and irritation, while others don’t. This has a lot to do with the concentration of peroxides (hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide) in the product. Peroxides are the main bleaching agent in conventional whitening products, and it’s no secret that they get the whitening job done. But at what cost? For years, peroxides have been known to cause complications such as sensitivity, enamel erosion, gum irritation, bleeding, sores, and beyond. There’s a reason peroxide-based whitening products come with thorough instructions: keep the product from touching your gums, don’t let it sit on your teeth for too long, don’t use it too often, do not swallow, etc. To no surprise, many countries have placed restrictions and bans on peroxide-based products. The EU and Canada both have strict concentration limits, while Japan has completely banned hydrogen peroxide in cosmetics. If the product is paired with so many warnings and regulations around the world, is it truly safe? Don’t worry, we’re not saying you have to ditch teeth whitening altogether, but there is a gentler, natural alternative to peroxides: PAP teeth whitening. our preferred method, natural teeth whitening PAP teeth whitening is the more natural alternative to peroxide-based products. PAP (Phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid) is an organic acid that promotes bleaching, and it does so without releasing the same harmful atoms that peroxides do. These harmful atoms, aka free radicals, can cause damage to your mouth’s cells and tissues. If you move your tongue around your mouth, it’s easy to feel that there’s a lot of soft, cushy tissue all over. These cells and tissues are prone to irritation and inflammation, so we want to make sure we’re using products that are gentle and safe. Peroxides are also known to wear down your enamel and cause irritation and inflammation, which is why they cause so much sensitivity even after one use. Unlike peroxides, PAP teeth whitening products are often fortified with hydroxyapatite, an amazing ingredient that already exists in your enamel and works to remineralize it from the inside out. With help from hydroxyapatite, PAP teeth whitening methods actually work to strengthen your enamel, not wear it down. This reduces the risk of sensitivity and nurtures your oral health in the long run! With PAP you don’t have to deal with painful sensitivity right after a whitening session, so you can proudly and comfortably show off your bright white smile! how hydroxyapatite can help In addition to PAP teeth whitening products that are formulated with hydroxyapatite, you can get a daily dose of hydroxyapatite with our sensitive + whitening toothpaste. It’s made with amazing ingredients that work to fight tooth decay, reverse enamel damage, nourish your gums, relieve sensitivity, freshen your breath, and whiten your teeth! Gentle abrasives such as calcium carbonate and hydrated silica work to safely whiten and polish your teeth, while xylitol and baking soda work to kill bad bacteria and neutralize plaque-forming acids. Then, nano-hydroxyapatite particles bind to your enamel on a microscopic level, remineralizing damaged areas from the inside out to reduce decay and relieve sensitivity. Sounds like a pretty incredible whitening and remineralizing dream team, right? Until we make a special announcement about some new natural teeth whitening products, we encourage you to stock up on hydroxyapatite toothpaste for your brightest, strongest smile yet! buy now.
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how mouth breathing impacts your oral health + new habits that can help
You’ve probably realized that how you breathe really matters. If you haven’t, you can prove it to yourself right now. How does it feel when you take a few short, shallow breaths through your mouth? Now, how does it feel when you take a long, deep breath through your nose...pausing at the top and exhaling slowly? Your breath has the power to immediately impact your nervous system, for better or worse. But did you know that the way you breathe also has a huge influence on the health of your teeth? It’s true, mouth breathing has the potential to impact numerous areas of your health, and we’re diving into them....so you can learn new ways to protect your oral and overall health from this poor habit. nose breathing vs mouth breathing Are you a mouth breather? The truth is, you might not even know the answer to that. That’s because breathing is an unconscious habit throughout the day (for the most part)....and certainly unconscious when you’re asleep at night. Let’s dive into some of the differences between nose breathing and mouth breathing, so you can see why this topic is worth your attention! Nose breathing is preferred because it... filters toxins: your tiny nose hairs serve a very important purpose. They naturally filter out allergens, microorganisms, and pathogens as you inhale. When you breathe through your mouth, these toxins can directly enter your lungs. humidifies and warms the air: this is important because your internal body temperature is high, so when the air you breathe is closer to your body temperature, it’s easier for your lungs to use. increases oxygen uptake: nose breathing produces nitric oxide, which helps to widen your blood vessels, making it easier for oxygenated blood to reach your internal tissues and organs. More nitric oxide can enhance your brain function, regulate inflammation, promote weight management, improve sleep quality, nurture your gut health, and beyond! In short, your nose was made for breathing and smelling, so it’s important to let it do its job! On the flip side, mouth breathing is harmful because it can: allow more toxins into your mouth and body: mouth breathing bypasses the natural filtration system that exists in your nose, allowing more toxins to enter your airway and irritate different systems in your body. cause dry mouth and increase your risk of tooth decay: mouth breathing can dry out your mouth and slow your saliva production, allowing bacteria to fester, eat away at your enamel, disturb your mouth’s pH, and cause bad breath. increase snoring and disrupt restful sleep: if you mouth breathe, you’re more likely to snore and experience sleep disruptions (including sleep apnea). negatively impact your heart, brain, and lungs: as we saw with nose breathing, nitric oxide is essential. You’re not getting enough nitric oxide when you mouth breathe, and this can keep your vital organs from receiving optimal oxygenation. This can cause symptoms such as brain fog, memory loss, asthma, abnormal blood pressure/heart rate, and more. Many experts agree that the only time mouth breathing is truly necessary is when you’re performing intense exercise, so let’s keep it that way! the dental signs of mouth breathing We’ve discussed how mouth breathing can cause dry mouth, but the negative effects on your oral health stem even further. The dental signs of mouth breathing can include: increased oral pH: as you sleep, mouth breathing can decrease your oral pH. This can appear as increased enamel erosion, sensitivity, gum disease, and/or tooth decay. bad breath: reduced saliva in your mouth allows bacteria to fester, causing you to wake up with “cotton mouth” and bad breath. enlarged tonsils: these are both a cause and an effect of mouth breathing. As mouth breathing dries out your mouth and affects your pH, this can lead to inflammation in the tonsils and adenoids. But enlarged tonsils and adenoids can also obstruct your primary airway and prompt you to breathe through your mouth. It’s a vicious cycle! TMJ and jaw clenching (bruxism): your tongue is supposed to serve as a “cushion” for your jaw, but mouth breathing can cause your tongue to move away from the roof of your mouth. With your tongue out of position, it can’t properly support your jaw and dental arch, which can lead to issues such as TMJ and jaw clenching. As you can see, “mouth breather” isn’t just an insulting term made famous by Stranger Things. It’s a serious condition to consider when it comes to your oral and overall health! how to stop mouth breathing Now that you know the harms of mouth breathing, how can you stop it?During the day, we recommend practicing mindfulness to discover your breathing patterns. If you find yourself mouth breathing more often than not, establish a daily ritual that includes deep breathing through your nose. You’ll also want to ensure that your nasal passages are clear, perhaps by using saline sprays/flushes.Nighttime mouth breathing is a little bit trickier. But don’t worry, there are countless brands of mouth tape out there that help you stop mouth breathing. For example, SomniFix Strips are designed to comfortably keep your mouth closed, your jaw aligned, and your tongue on the roof of your mouth, leaving your nasal airway clear for efficient nose breathing. how hydroxyapatite can combat the effects of mouth breathing Along with mouth tape and mindfulness, hydroxyapatite toothpaste can help you mitigate the effects of mouth breathing. We’ve discussed how mouth breathing can cause dry mouth, enamel damage, sensitivity, tooth decay, and beyond, so it’s a good thing that our hydroxyapatite toothpaste can help you combat all of those things!Hydroxyapatite is a substance that already exists in your teeth and bones. When you brush daily with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste, the nano-hydroxyapatite particles bind to your enamel on a molecular level, filling holes and scratches while remineralizing weakened areas. This helps to relieve sensitivity (within just a few days) and prevent further damage. Our hydroxyapatite toothpaste also contains vegetable glycerin and xylitol, both of which work to moisturize your mouth to prevent dry mouth. Glycerin is a natural moisturizer that stimulates your salivary glands, immediately soothing the symptoms of dry mouth. Research shows that xylitol also stimulates saliva production while starving bad bacteria in your mouth, providing an extra line of defense for your teeth! If you’re a mouth breather, don’t hesitate to add our hydroxyapatite toothpaste to your daily routine. buy now
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what causes cavities? our top five tips for holistic and natural cavity prevention
Before we dive into natural cavity prevention, let’s talk about what causes cavities. As Dr. Mark of Ask the Dentist explains, our teeth naturally know how to heal themselves, which is why it’s possible to keep the same set of teeth your whole life!How do your teeth self-repair? Between daily wear and tear, your saliva delivers a much-needed mineral supply to your teeth. This allows your teeth to remineralize any spots that have been weakened or damaged by bacteria (the beginning of a cavity). If your teeth aren’t getting a steady supply of minerals (or the bacteria in your mouth are too overpowering), those spots will continue to weaken and form a cavity.Conventional dentistry will tell you that you either have to brush with a potent synthetic fluoride toothpaste or “drill and fill” once your cavity has reached the point of no return. But we’re here to tell you that natural, proactive remineralization should be your focus and first line of defense against potential cavities. You can help your teeth achieve this natural remineralization by using Davids sensitive + whitening toothpaste, aka the best hydroxyapatite toothpaste, as well as the other holistic health habits we’ve outlined below. 1: take inventory of your oral health status We’re all starting at a different baseline when it comes to cavities and overall oral health.Even if we all had the same holistic oral care habits, we’d still have different outcomes. This is because different conditions can play a role in your susceptibility to cavities.You can start your natural cavity prevention journey by taking inventory of your overall oral health status. We recommend asking yourself the following questions. What does your tongue look like? Is it an even pink tone, or does it have discoloration, grooves, textures, or a white coating? Your tongue is always trying to tell you something about your oral and overall health. You can investigate by using some of the info in our previous article here. You can also take the first step to a healthier tongue by adding our professional tongue scraper to your daily routine! Are you dealing with dry mouth at night or throughout the day? Dry mouth will put you at a huge disadvantage when it comes to cavities. As we mentioned before, saliva plays a huge role in flushing out bacteria and toxins....as well as delivering essential minerals to your teeth. Dry mouth can be caused by your habits, mouth breathing at night, genetics, medications, and beyond. When was the last time you went to the dentist? Are you up to date on your x-rays? You could already be starting with cavities you don’t even know about. How’s your oral care routine looking? Are you brushing daily with remineralizing ingredients, like the ones found in our hydroxyapatite toothpaste? Are you flossing daily? No matter how clean your oral care routine is (or how stellar your oral health is), it’s always a good idea to check in every now and then. Now, let’s head into some other specific tips for natural cavity prevention. 2: prioritize specific vitamins and nutrients in your diet Hydroxyapatite, the hero ingredient in our remineralizing toothpaste (and fluoride's biggest competitor), is composed of calcium and phosphorus. These elements are essential for your oral health, so it’s crucial that you’re getting a natural supply of these in your diet. Magnesium, vitamin D, and vitamin K2 are also essential nutrients when it comes to your oral health, so let’s discuss some ways you can ensure you’re getting enough of them through your diet....and how they support natural cavity prevention. calcium: famously known as the nutrient needed for “strong bones and teeth,” calcium plays an important role in preventing cavities. It gives your enamel (the hard outer surface of your teeth) strength, and you can up your calcium levels by consuming dairy, chia seeds, sardines, salmon, almonds, beans, lentils, whey protein, tofu, and leafy greens. phosphorous: as another building block of your enamel, phosphorus is essential for your oral health. You can get more of it in your diet through the foods mentioned in the bullet point above + poultry, red meat, and more seafood. vitamin D: your body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium, and you can get more vitamin D naturally by getting out in the sun (carefully for a limited amount of time) and eating more fatty fish, mushrooms, oysters, shrimp, and egg yolks. vitamin K2: this vitamin activates a protein that helps calcium bind to our teeth and bones to do its remineralizing. You can get more K2 through fermented soy (Natto), sauerkraut, butter, chicken, beef liver, and egg yolks. magnesium: another mineral that helps your body absorb calcium (and activate vitamin D), magnesium is essential when it comes to forming strong enamel. Strong enamel is your first line of defense against tooth decay. You can get more magnesium through nuts, oats, seeds, spinach, soy, and supplementation. You can see that there’s a lot of overlap between each bullet point, meaning most of these foods are well-rounded and nutrient-dense! See if you can make some of them staples in your diet. 3: limit sugar and acidity in your diet In addition to adding mouth-healthy foods to your diet, you can support natural cavity prevention by limiting your intake of acidic and/or sugary foods and drinks. The cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth love to feed on sugar and use it to produce acid that breaks down your enamel. In a similar manner, directly consuming acidic foods and drinks (like citrus fruits, grapes, pineapple, vinegar, and alcohol) can weaken your enamel and make it more prone to decay. 4: listen to your gut While it may not be the first thing you think of, your gut plays a central role in your oral health. The balance of bacteria in your gut can affect the balance in your oral microbiome (and vice versa). If you have an overwhelming amount of bad bacteria in either place, it can take over the good bacteria and lead to tooth decay. Other gut conditions such as acid reflux can also play a huge role in your oral health, as we discussed how acid can wear down your enamel and lead to cavities. It’s important to consistently nourish your gut health by listening to any symptoms your gut presents and consuming gut-healthy foods. Fibrous, nutrient-dense, and fermented foods are great for the good bacteria in your gut, and natural stress management (through movement, mindfulness, meditation, restful sleep, and beyond) can really help your gut and oral microbiomes in the long run....all of which can support natural cavity prevention! 5: remineralize with the best hydroxyapatite toothpaste We’ve mentioned that hydroxyapatite is a combination of calcium and phosphorus, the building blocks of strong, healthy enamel. Brushing daily with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste is one of the best (and easiest!) ways to strengthen your enamel to support natural cavity prevention. Hydroxyapatite is the natural alternative to fluoride, but unlike fluoride, it’s biocompatible and safe to consume. With hydroxyapatite, you don’t have to worry about adverse effects if it’s swallowed or absorbed into your bloodstream. This is why you won’t find a poison control warning on our toothpaste tube! Why do we call Davids the best hydroxyapatite toothpaste? Well, we had a third-party lab test it up against our competitors, and it did the best job at remineralizing weakened, porous enamel (the most susceptible to cavities). You can check out the photo results for yourself! Now that’s what we call natural cavity prevention + enamel repair. buy now
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10 creative ways to celebrate world smile day + make it brighter with hydroxyapatite
Friday, October 6th is World Smile Day! Falling on the first Friday in October every year, World Smile Day is all about spreading kindness and happiness. We’re celebrating by exploring the history behind the holiday, some little-known fun facts about smiling, and some unexpected ways to spread smiles. With the potential to instantly boost your mood and increase your longevity, one smile has a lot more power than you might think! the story behind world smile day World Smile Day is the product of an iconic symbol: the smiley face.Harvey Ball created the smiley face in 1963, not knowing it would become one of the most famous (and happiest) symbols in the world. As the smiley face gained popularity, Harvey began to grow apprehensive about its commercialization, fearing its original meaning (to spread cheer) would get lost. (This is understandable, now that we often convey fake smiles through emojis on our phones.) In an effort to preserve the meaning behind the smiley face, Harvey created World Smile Day in 1999. From then on, the first Friday of October would be an annual celebration dedicated to smiles, kindness, and happiness. To get you feeling inspired about this delightful day, let’s dive into 10 fun facts about smiling! smiling alone can boost your mood by increasing serotonin + dopamine in the brain it calms your nervous system (in turn, relieving stress + boosting your immune system) smiling is often referred to as the “natural painkiller” it’s one of the few universal signs of happiness smiling uses anywhere from 5 to 53 facial muscles (depending on the smile) there are 19 different types of smiles babies can start smiling as soon as they’re born science says that smiling is contagious studies show that women smile more often than men smiling might increase longevity There you have it, one smile has the power to ignite a lot of positivity for yourself and the people around you! creative ways to celebrate world smile day The motto behind World Smile Day is: "Do an act of kindness. Help one person smile!” To celebrate, we’ve dreamed up 10 creative ways you can spread smiles. treat someone to their morning cup of coffee/tea make dinner for a neighbor/friend in need if you see a parking meter expired, add some money to it compliment someone out loud (often we think these things but don’t say them) leave a note with words of affirmation on someone’s car leave a treat outside for your mail/package carrier plant a new tree with a new friend write your partner an unexpected love note write a heartfelt thanks to your helpful coworker rake your neighbor's leaves when you go to do your own We’d love to hear the creative ideas you come up with! Be sure to share your stories about brightening someone’s day on World Smile Day. natural teeth whitening for a brighter smile We know it can feel hard to get excited about World Smile Day (or get all the benefits of smiling) when you’re not feeling confident about your smile. If you’ve ever felt insecure about the alignment of your teeth, the shade of your enamel, or anything in regard to your oral health, you know that your smile can have a huge impact on your self-esteem....often keeping you from avoiding the act altogether. Studies show that people who smile less seem less approachable and might not even get promoted as quickly as their smiling counterparts. To help you feel more confident about your smile, we’re sharing some of our favorite natural teeth whitening techniques. (In regards to issues with your oral health and alignment, we’re here to encourage you to make an appointment with your dentist.) hydroxyapatite toothpaste: brushing daily with Davids sensitive + whitening hydroxyapatite toothpaste can work wonders for your white smile. Not only does science show that hydroxyapatite alone can lighten the shade of your teeth, but it does so by strengthening and remineralizing your enamel. The result is a bright white smile that actually feels better since hydroxyapatite remineralization provides both enamel repair and tooth sensitivity relief. natural mouthwash: while conventional mouthwash is all about wiping out all of the bacteria in your delicate oral microbiome, natural mouthwash works to reduce bad bacteria and stabilize your mouth’s pH without completely wiping it out. It does so by avoiding harmful ingredients such as alcohol and peroxides and instead using intentional ingredients such as xylitol and hydroxyapatite. As the natural mouthwash effectively balances the bacteria in your mouth, xylitol and nano hydroxyapatite work together as a remineralizing dream team to strengthen your enamel (and your confidence along with it). Stay tuned for a special announcement from us about a brand-new natural mouthwash! PAP teeth whitening: Phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid (PAP) is a natural alternative to peroxide-based chemical whitening that’s gentle on your enamel. Unlike peroxide-based products, PAP teeth whitening does not release damaging free radicals as it whitens. On top of this, PAP+ is formulated with nano hydroxyapatite, the natural hero ingredient that works to remineralize and strengthen your enamel on a molecular level. PAP teeth whitening comes in different forms, including toothpaste, mouthwash, gels, strips, and powders. You have a lot of options to choose from, which makes it easier to integrate this natural method into your routine! You can see that our favorite natural teeth whitening methods all have something in common: hydroxyapatite. It’s the secret (natural) ingredient to a bright white smile, one that actually feels strong and healthy....not sensitive and vulnerable. We hope you feel inspired to celebrate World Smile Day by doing something amazing for your smile...and spreading kindness to all the people who could use it! buy now.
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10 common causes of sensitive teeth and how our hydroxyapatite toothpaste can help
Picture this: you’re eating an ice-cold snack on a hot summer day when suddenly, your sensitive tooth reminds you it’s alive and (un)well. We know how annoying and disruptive sensitive teeth can be, but we also know that understanding the cause of your sensitivity can lead to a long-term solution. That’s why we’re diving into 10 commoncauses of sensitive teeth and providing realistic, everyday solutions....many of which revolve around brushing daily with hydroxyapatite toothpaste. Because it’s time to get to the root of your sensitivity....and solve the problem once and for all. 1: acidic, sugary substances Acidic substances (citrus fruits, vinegar, tomatoes, yogurt, etc.) can erode your enamel and wear down your gum line over time. This “opens the door” for bacteria and other substances to enter the inner layers of your teeth, exposing the tubules that lead to your tooth’s center nerve. Foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates can have the same effect. This is because the bacteria in your mouth (and gut) release acids to break down these carbohydrates, depositing more acid on your enamel and gums and leading to sensitivity. Don’t worry, daily brushing with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste can clean up the acids, plaque, and bacteria in your mouth while also providing enamel repair, making your teeth stronger and more resilient to future threats. 2: brushing too aggressively One of the lesser-known causes of sensitive teeth is brushing too hard. That’s right, aggressive brushing doesn’t actually clean your teeth more effectively! Over time, it can cause more harm than good by wearing down your enamel and gum line. To avoid this, we recommend using a soft bristle toothbrush (like our bamboo toothbrush) and practicing mindfulness every time you brush. Make an effort to brush with soft motions, gently sweeping over your teeth and gums in circular or back-and-forth motions without pressing too hard. 3: teeth grinding Do you feel tension headaches and jaw soreness after a long day or a night of sleep? These could be signs that you grind your teeth when you’re sleeping (or subconsciously throughout the day when you’re stressed). Constantly clenching your teeth can also lead to enamel and gum damage, causing pain in your muscles and sensitivity in your teeth! Be sure to check out our previous article to help identify some reasons why you might be grinding your teeth....and how our hydroxyapatite toothpaste can help repair the damage. In short, the nano hydroxyapatite (n-ha) particles in our formula can actually bind to your enamel and repair the small holes, scratches, and depressions caused by grinding. 4: teeth whitening with peroxides Do you whiten your teeth with peroxide-based products? While hydrogen peroxide + carbamide peroxide are effective bleaching agents, they’re famous for causing sensitivity, burning, itching, redness, and swelling because they strip your enamel. Don’t worry, there’s a more natural approach to whitening that actually fortifies your enamel. Meet PAP teeth whitening, aka the peroxide-free future of teeth whitening. PAP is an organic acid that activates bleaching, and it’s often mixed with hydroxyapatite to give you a gentle whitening formula that nurtures enamel repair and soothes sensitivity as it whitens. What’s not to love? 5: chemical mouthwash Are you using conventional mouthwash every day? Many chemical mouthwashes contain alcohol and hydrogen peroxide, both of which are very harsh on your enamel and gums and lead to pain and sensitivity. Instead of completely wiping out all of the microorganisms in your mouth with chemical mouthwash, we recommend tongue scraping and/or switching to a more natural mouthwash. By making these swaps, you’re nurturing a healthier balance of bacteria in your oral microbiome (yes, good bacteria exist and are essential for your oral and overall health). 6: plaque buildup around the gumline Plaque and tartar are two things that will really harm your enamel and gum line over time, leading to very uncomfortable tooth sensitivity. When plaque (a gooey buildup of bacteria) sits on your teeth for 24-72 hours, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by dental professionals. So if your teeth feel rough when you press your tongue against them, you’re past due for a visit to the dentist! To prevent plaque and tartar buildup, brush daily with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste, which contains micro-abrasives to break down plaque, xylitol and peppermint oils to kill bad bacteria, and hydroxyapatite to deliver enamel repair. 7: acid reflux Just like acidic foods can cause sensitivity, so can acid reflux. This is just another example of how your gut health and oral health are so closely intertwined. Although many doctors will prescribe an antiacid medication, we feel it’s essential for your holistic health to identify the root cause of your acid reflux. Do you have low stomach acid levels from stress, magnesium deficiency, poor eating habits, H. Pylori infection, or hypothyroidism? We encourage you to visit both a medical doctor and a functional doctor in your area to develop a plan of action that best nourishes your oral and overall health. 8: cavity, cracked tooth, worn fillings It may seem obvious, but cavities, cracked teeth, and worn fillings are all leading causes of sensitivity and discomfort. If your sensitivity persists despite daily brushing with hydroxyapatite toothpaste, it’s best to get it checked out by your dentist to see if the enamel wear has progressed to decay. Dental professionals can also check for cracks in your teeth and worn fillings. As you get older, fillings can weaken and bacteria can build up around the edges, leading to really uncomfortable sensitivity that only your dentist can straighten out. 9: gum recession + gum disease You can see that many of the above causes of sensitive teeth revolve around enamel wear and gum health. If your gums begin to recede or form “pockets” because of periodontitis, you’re going to experience persistent sensitivity. When your gums recede, they expose parts of your teeth that aren’t meant to come in contact with the outside world. The lower parts of your teeth (which are usually protected by your gums) contain tubules that lead to your center nerve, so when they become exposed, sensitivity starts. If you notice your sensitivity is coupled with bleeding gums, redness, and inflammation, you might be dealing with gum disease. It’s best to get your gums checked out by your dentist to craft a personalized plan of action. 10: aging We can’t stress this enough: it’s so important to start caring for your enamel and gums as early as possible, so you can prevent sensitivity as you age. So, if you’ve been waiting to try out hydroxyapatite toothpaste, our best advice is to go for it. Your oral care habits, eating habits, everyday wear and tear, and genetics all accumulate over time, which can lead to sensitivity throughout adulthood. As you age, you might also be introduced to new medications that can lead to dry mouth and sensitivity, so it’s best to start enamel-strengthening habits when you’re young. why Davids is the best hydroxyapatite toothpaste You don’t have to take our word for it, our friends at Intertek performed a lab test comparing our hydroxyapatite toothpaste to leading sensitive toothpastes on the market. The photo results proved that our formula outperformed the rest, successfully promoting enamel repair by remineralizng holes, scratches, and imperfections better than our competitors. See for yourself why we call Davids the best hydroxyapatite toothpaste. buy now
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