Davids blog
should I scrape my tongue before or after brushing? our top tips for you
Whether you’ve never heard of tongue scraping before, or you’ve been using a tongue scraper for years...it can be confusing to determine the most effective order of operations for your oral care routine. Should I scrape my tongue before or after brushing? We’ve asked ourselves the same question a time or two. And lucky for you, we’ve found the answer. Follow along as we discuss the best time to use your tongue scraper + all of the amazing benefits it adds to your oral care routine. should I scrape my tongue before or after brushing? You’ll get maximum benefits if you scrape after brushing, especially when there’s still a bit of natural toothpaste left behind. Your tongue is full of cracks, grooves, and pores. So when you scrape your tongue after brushing, you allow the bacteria-fighting ingredients of our natural toothpaste to enter these spaces and begin cleaning. Then, you can use your tongue scraper to wipe away remaining food particles, residue, and bacteria for a deeper clean. Here are some additional tips regarding the order of your oral care routine. floss first: while most dentists will floss your teeth after cleaning, we recommend doing it before. When you floss, you’re dislodging particles and bacteria from the tiny crevices between your teeth. If you don’t brush after doing this, some of those particles and bacteria may remain in your mouth. Plus, when you floss before brushing, you allow your teeth to receive the maximum effect of your toothpaste. If you’re using our hydroxyapatite toothpaste, flossing first may allow those hydroxyapatite particles to better penetrate weakened areas and remineralize your enamel. brush with Davids: brushing with our effective natural toothpaste sets your mouth up for the perfect tongue scraping. It covers your mouth with bacteria-fighting, teeth-whitening, and enamel-restoring ingredients, leaving your mouth fresh and primed for tongue scraping. use your tongue scraper: as explained above, tongue scraping after brushing sets you up for maximum benefits (which we discuss in the next section). finish with natural mouthwash: when you finish with natural mouthwash (especially one fortified with hydroxyapatite), you allow the ingredients to penetrate and nourish your freshly cleaned teeth. Oh, and stay tuned for an exciting announcement from us about natural mouthwash! One last pro tip: we recommend doing this entire routine first thing in the morning before you eat or drink anything. This is because tons of bacteria form and fester in your mouth while you sleep, so if you wake up and take a big gulp of water, you might be swallowing harmful bacteria that could disrupt the balance of your gut microbiome. Avoid this by starting your day with a fresh mouth. why use a tongue scraper? The benefits of a tongue scraper are undeniable. If you’re not already using one, here are a few great reasons to start! it clears bacteria, toxins, and dead cells from your tongue: this is perhaps the most obvious benefit, as tongue scraping removes residue and microorganisms from your tongue's surface. it can prevent bad breath: tongue scraping is one of the most effective ways to remove odor-causing particles from your tongue (especially the back of your tongue) it can enhance your sense of taste: tongue scraping cleanses and rejuvenates your taste buds. One study found that just two weeks of tongue scraping resulted in improved taste. it increases your overall health awareness: ancient Ayurveda claims that you can learn a lot about your current state of health by the appearance of your tongue. Conventional doctors also tend to follow this concept, which is why many doctors and dentists will ask you to stick out your tongue at the beginning of an exam. it can reduce your overall toxin load: dental Ayurveda also states that your tongue is directly connected to several of your vital organs. When you use a tongue scraper, you remove toxins from your tongue while stimulating the tissue, which does the same for the connected organs. The result? You help your organs detox and restore balance. it can improve your digestion: your mouth is the window to your gut, and reducing the amount of bad bacteria in your mouth does the same for your gut, allowing the good bacteria to flourish and promote good digestion. For a deeper dive into the benefits of tongue scraping, check out our previous article: why use a tongue scraper? 5 little known facts about its benefits. why Davids’ is the best tongue scraper Tongue scraping has been around for centuries, so there’s no shortage of tongue scraper options on the market. We’d like to explain some of the things that set ours apart from the rest. Our tongue scraper is the Tongue Sweeper Model P, which sports these amazing qualities. stainless steel construction: this model is dishwasher safe, hypoallergenic, BPA-free, and non-toxic. Unlike plastic and bamboo tongue scrapers, it’s extremely durable and will not break from everyday use. This high-quality metal will not show sharp edges like some copper and other low-quality metal options. dentist designed: the Tongue Sweeper is used as an example in dental schools! Its patented design is preferred by dental professionals. easy to use: unlike most tongue scrapers, it’s designed with a one-handed grip with a soft, curved head to reduce initiating the gag reflex and to promote overall ease of use. This model can be used by adults and children 5+ years of age, and you can even use it on your pets. Our tongue scraper is a safe, sustainable, and effective way to elevate + optimize your oral health. When you pair it with our natural toothpaste, it’s one of the best + easiest ways to start and end your day on the freshest possible note. buy now.
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why are we so passionate about providing you with vegan toothpaste?
To us, “vegan toothpaste” is not just a label or a marketing ploy. It’s a commitment that’s central to our mission. You see, our mission is to provide you with the best natural toothpaste....one that sustains nature+you. How do we accomplish this? By creating a vegan toothpaste that utilizes thoughtfully-sourced, intentional ingredients. These ingredients not only work to nurture your oral + holistic health….but they also take a stand against animal cruelty and other unethical industry “norms”. When you grab your tube of Davids every single morning and evening, we want you to feel confident and comforted knowing that it’s the best choice for your mouth...and your conscience. With that being said, let’s dive into some of the details surrounding why we’re so passionate about providing you with the best vegan toothpaste out there. vegan toothpaste is few and far between Like many other personal care products, it’s not so obvious that toothpaste contains animal products. After all, you won’t find too many bacon-flavored toothpastes on the shelves. Our founder Eric attended many vegan trade shows during the four-year journey of formulating Davids Natural Toothpaste. He was shocked by how many people had no idea that their toothpaste contained animal by-products. This not only heightened his passion for formulating the best vegan toothpaste out there, but it also reminded him how important it is to bring more transparency and awareness into an industry dominated by the same few “big name” brands for decades. So, here we are, increasing your awareness and upholding our commitment to transparency. So, what are these sneaky animal-derived ingredients found in toothpaste (even some natural toothpaste)? glycerin: this thick, gooey liquid is often derived from animal fat (ours is derived from plants). You’ll find this ingredient in many toothpastes, lotions, and soaps, as it locks in moisture and keeps products from sticking to their casing. flavor: be wary of any toothpaste that lists “flavor” as an ingredient. Not only does this raise red flags regarding transparency, but it also allows brands to slip in ingredients that may be derived from animals, unfriendly to your body, or both. calcium phosphate: you’ll find that some fluoride toothpastes contain calcium phosphate, as it enhances the performance of fluoride. This ingredient is often derived from rock or bone meal. propolis: some natural toothpaste (not ours) contains propolis, an ingredient that’s said to kill bacteria in place of harsh chemicals. Propolis is produced by honeybees, making it a non-vegan ingredient. You can rest assured that every single tube of Davids is 100% vegan and contains no animal by-products. We use a premium vegetable glycerin that’s produced right here in the US, and all of our other bacteria-fighting, enamel-strengthening, and breath-freshening ingredients are derived from natural plant and mineral sources. too many toothpastes are tested on animals It’s important to note that even if a toothpaste does not contain animal-derived ingredients, it may still test on animals. In our book, that means they’re not vegan. We’re sad to report that most mainstream toothpastes are still tested on animals. How have they been getting away with this for so long? Well, probably because no brand is going to stamp “we test on animals” across their packaging, so they’re able to swipe their practices under the rug. Many big-name brands will say that they’re committed to working towards eliminating animal testing and that most of their testing is done using databases and non-animal techniques. However, they keep animal testing as an option when they can’t find any other means to ensure their product is safe for consumers. In our opinion, if you can’t ensure the safety of an ingredient unless you test it on a group of animals in a lab, it probably shouldn’t be in a personal care product that you use every single day (especially in your mouth). It’s estimated that up to 500,000 animals around the world suffer and die as a result of cosmetic product testing. Toothpaste is one of those cosmetic products. The truth is, unless it’s labeled as a cruelty free toothpaste (like we are), you can’t be sure it avoids animal testing. Toothpaste is a product you use twice daily, so we deeply understand the desire for a toothpaste that does not contribute to animal cruelty...and one that does not use questionable ingredients that would even require animal testing! That’s exactly why we made cruelty free toothpaste that’s safe for you and animals. Davids is certified by Leaping Bunny, the only organization with an internationally-recognized symbol that certifies no animal tests were used in the development of a product. Finally, a vegan toothpaste you can safely rely on. our vegan toothpaste is cruelty free and effective Not only is our vegan toothpaste certified cruelty-free, but it’s also effective in maintaining and optimizing your oral health. Unlike other toothpastes that stuff fillers, preservatives, and emulsifiers into their formulas, every single one of our ingredients serves a purpose (and often, more than one purpose). For example: Our vegetable glycerin doesn’t just keep your toothpaste from hardening and sticking to the tube. It also works to activate your saliva glands to help prevent and/or reduce dry mouth. Our premium peppermint oils and birch-derived xylitol don’t just enhance the fantastic, fresh taste of our natural toothpaste. They also work to kill bad bacteria and keep plaque from forming on your teeth. This is just the tip of the iceberg! You can learn more about our intentional vegan ingredients here. Always remember, they were chosen to sustain nature+you, so you can rest easy knowing our vegan toothpaste has your best interest at heart. buy now.
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five questions to ask your kids’ dentist: build healthy habits at a young age
We know, it can feel overwhelming to be responsible for someone else’s oral health. Especially when that someone is your little one! With so many mixed messages out there about children's oral health, how do you figure out what’s best for your child’s teeth? Our advice: go straight to the professionals. But when you do, make sure you’re prepared with a strong understanding of the basics. That way, you can make informed, empowered decisions on behalf of your little one. Don’t worry, that’s exactly what we’re here to help you with. Read on to discover some important details about kids oral care. After all, when you feel more confident and comfortable at the pediatric dentist, your child can learn to feel the same way, too. 1: what should we expect during our first few visits? We recommend reaching out to your local dentist’s office to discuss what to expect before you head in for your little one’s first appointment. But we’ve also outlined some general info on what to expect below. first visit: the first visit should happen 6 months after the first tooth has come in, or by 12 months at the latest. Depending on your child’s age, the dentist might examine the jaw, bite, gums, and teeth to assess development. They might even perform a gentle cleaning! second visit: this should happen 6 months after the first visit. Frequent visits not only allow you to catch developmental issues...they can also help your child build comfort at the dentist. Your dentist will likely give tips and product recommendations for your child here. As you continue the trend of visits every 6 months, your dentist may recommend X-rays depending on your child’s age and individual tooth development. 2: do baby teeth really matter? Absolutely! It’s tempting to think, “they don’t matter; they’re just going to fall out anyways.” But this way of thinking can really hinder your kids oral health in the long run. Healthy baby teeth lay a healthy foundation for long-term oral health. Not only do healthy baby teeth help your child with chewing and talking, but they give your child a better chance of growing strong and healthy permanent teeth later on. If your child’s teeth are compromised, the resulting bacteria and organisms can actually harm the permanent tooth that’s growing beneath it. Not to mention, if a baby tooth decays, it can fall out too early. This can lead to crooked or damaged adult teeth. 3: what’s the best way to establish habits that promote my kids oral health? Our first piece of advice is to lead by example. Model great oral care behavior by taking great care of your own oral and holistic health. Remember that plaque can begin to accumulate at any age, so you’ll want to clean your child’s teeth as they come in. Some dentists may recommend rubbing a dental wipe or wet cloth on your child’s teeth before bedtime. When they’re old enough to hold the toothbrush themselves, make oral care a fun family ritual that you do together. One of the best ways to build good habits is to make it fun! Be sure to check out our strawberry watermelon natural toothpaste for kids + adults. It’s the perfect fun flavor that you and your little one(s) can enjoy together. We also recommend explaining the importance of each oral care habit, so your child begins to understand why they’re doing these things every single day. On top of that, we encourage you to ask your pediatric dentist or hygienist to show your child how to brush their teeth! They’re experienced in teaching little ones how to get the hang of it, and simply asking can take this intimidating task off your plate. 4: how can I help my child if they experience tooth sensitivity? Tooth sensitivity is a very bio-individual problem. Be sure to ask your dentist for specific recommendations to combat this problem. In general, tooth sensitivity occurs when the tooth’s enamel (hard outer surface) is compromised. This leaves the “tubules” that lead to the tooth’s center nerve “exposed,” so the nerve is left vulnerable. nutrition: avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks that can wear down the enamel over time, and instead replace them with more nutrient-dense foods healthy habits: damaged enamel is often associated with poor oral care habits. Ensure that your child is brushing properly every day to avoid enamel wear supplementation: to promote long-term enamel health, consider introducing hydroxyapatite into your kids oral care routine. Hydroxyapatite is a mineral that already exists in your teeth, and adding it back in can strengthen the enamel from the inside out. In the short term, visit your dentist for a treatment that can relieve sensitivity, and be sure to ask them about specific, bio-individual tips for reducing your child’s tooth sensitivity. Your dentist will also be able to determine if the enamel damage requires additional treatment (such as a deep cleaning or a filling). It’s also important to remember that sensitivity can also be a result of new tender adult teeth, sinus issues, or tooth grinding. 5: what oral care products should my child use? Be sure to ask your dentist if your child is ready for flossing. It’s usually recommended to begin flossing when your child’s teeth begin to touch...and they have the patience and dexterity to get the job done. It’s also a good idea to ask your child’s dentist for a recommendation on the right toothbrush for your little one(s). The grip, softness, and size of your child’s toothbrush can make a big difference, especially when they’re getting used to brushing by themselves! In regards to toothpaste, many dentists will begin recommending fluoride products when your child reaches age 4. This is the age they begin to understand how to spit out toothpaste, which is important because fluoride can be harmful to your little one if they swallow too much of it. That being said, we encourage you to research the pros and cons of fluoride and make your own empowered decision on if/when to introduce it into your kids oral care routine. On our blog, we have several articles that discuss hydroxyapatite, a science-supported, natural alternative to fluoride. Check them out! what is hydroxyapatite (n-HA)? get to know your mouth's new hero ingredient answering your common questions about hydroxyapatite, our newest hero ingredient hydroxyapatite vs. fluoride: how does it compare to the oral care superstar? is hydroxyapatite toothpaste safe for your kids? the five famous benefits of nano-hydroxyapatite how does nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA) work to relieve your sensitive teeth? In the meantime, you can rest assured that our strawberry watermelon natural toothpaste will take great care of your child’s teeth, and there’s no harm associated with swallowing it! It’s carefully formulated for kids + adults, and it contains all the bacteria-fighting, teeth-polishing, nature-derived ingredients that our original toothpaste has. It will get the job done, worry-free. Consider it the best natural toothpaste for kids! buy now.
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why you should add a bamboo toothbrush into your oral care routine
As a brand that’s committed to creating products that sustain nature+you, we’re so excited to add bamboo toothbrushes to our product lineup. Not only are bamboo toothbrushes the perfect complement to our natural toothpaste, they offer many benefits for your oral health....and the health of the planet. Read along to discover these amazing benefits as well as some tips and tricks to properly dispose of your bamboo toothbrushes to ensure they decompose quickly and effectively! bamboo toothbrush benefits for your oral health It’s no secret that bamboo toothbrushes are better for the planet. But did you know that they also offer a bunch of benefits when it comes to your oral + overall health? Let’s take a look at a few. Bamboo is naturally antimicrobial. That’s why it’s a common material used for kitchen utensils and cutting boards. Unlike plastic, bamboo works naturally to kill bacteria that penetrate its surface. The handle is easy to grip. Bamboo toothbrushes tend to be easier to grip than plastic toothbrushes, as plastic gets very slick when wet. This makes it easier to get to those harder-to-reach spots of your mouth. The bristles are soft and effective. The bristles on bamboo toothbrushes are the same as their plastic counterparts, so you can rest assured that the bristles are just as soft and effective as conventional toothbrushes. Bamboo toothbrushes look great. As you can probably tell from the packaging of our natural toothpaste, we actually care about the aesthetic of your oral care products. They’re often the first thing you see in the morning, so we want the look to bring you a sense of calm and joy. The natural look of a bamboo toothbrush accomplishes this effortlessly. The benefits don’t stop there. Let’s take a look at exactly how bamboo toothbrushes are better for the planet, too. bamboo toothbrush benefits for the planet A sustainable alternative to conventional toothbrushes, bamboo toothbrushes can help you on your journey to reduce your impact on the environment. Bamboo toothbrushes reduce landfill waste. It’s estimated that 1 billion plastic toothbrushes are thrown away every year in the US alone. That translates to 50 million pounds of landfill waste! Bamboo toothbrushes are a great way to combat this, as they are compostable and biodegradable! When disposed of properly (which we’ve outlined in the next section), it can take just a few months for a bamboo toothbrush to decompose and return to the earth. Bye-bye, BPA. Good news for you and the planet: using a bamboo toothbrush can help you reduce your exposure to BPA (bisphenol A), an industrial chemical that’s been linked to many health issues. A lot of conventional plastic toothbrushes still contain BPA, unless otherwise specified. With our bamboo toothbrush, you don’t have to worry about BPA at all. It won’t be a part of your oral care routine, and it won’t end up in your trash can once you’re ready to replace your toothbrush. Seeing your bamboo toothbrush can inspire more sustainable choices. Your toothbrush is often one of the first things you see in the morning....and one of the last things you see before bed. A sustainable toothbrush can serve as an important reminder to make sustainable choices all day long. Now, let’s get into the specifics of disposing of your bamboo toothbrush in a way that’s good for the environment. how to “throw away” your bamboo toothbrush To ensure that you get the most out of your bamboo toothbrush, and it breaks down as quickly as possible when you’re finally done with it, we recommend following these steps. Consider upcycling your bamboo toothbrushes. You can use it as a tool to scrub tiny crevices in your bathroom or consider using the handles for something like garden markers/plant labels. But when your bamboo toothbrush finally reaches its end of life... Remove the bristles. We recommend using pliers to pull them out. Compost your bamboo toothbrush handles. The handle of your bamboo toothbrush is 100% biodegradable, but the time it takes to biodegrade will depend on your disposal method. Here’s a breakdown (pun intended). Commercial compost: In an industrial composter, your bamboo toothbrush will decompose in just a few weeks. This is much faster than an at-home composter because temperatures are much higher, and there are more microorganisms breaking down the compost. To get your toothbrush into an industrial composter, put it in your “yard waste” bin. Not sure if you have a yard waste bin or how to register for one? Check out this guide by earth911. At-home compost: If you have an at-home composter, you can dispose of it there, where it will take about 4-6 months to decompose. Plant it: You can actually plant your bamboo toothbrush horizontally in your garden soil where it will take roughly 3 years to decompose. Throw it in the garden: Don’t worry, your bamboo toothbrush will still decompose even If you simply throw it in your garden But it’ll take 5-10 years to fully break down. We recommend checking to see what compost options and facilities are available in your area. If you don’t already compost at home, we hope your bamboo toothbrush inspires you to start! sustain nature+you As you may know, all of our products are created to sustain nature+you. Our natural toothpaste was developed using intentional ingredients that promote your oral+holistic health and the well-being of the planet. Because all of our zero waste toothpaste ingredients are sourced and derived from nature, they do not harm the environment when they return through your sink’s drain. On top of that, we use recyclable and sustainable packaging to ensure we do not contribute to landfill waste. (Have you seen our aluminum toothpaste tubes?) The bamboo toothbrush is a natural addition to our product assortment. It’s the perfect tool to pair with our natural toothpaste for a holistic oral care routine that sustains both nature+you. buy now.
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do your teeth feel rough? how to defend against tartar with hydroxyapatite
Have you ever pressed your tongue against the back of your teeth and felt a rough, scratchy texture? That’s tartar. The back of your teeth should feel smooth and glossy when you rub your tongue against it. If it doesn’t feel smooth, it’s past time to schedule a deep cleaning with your dentist. What is tartar? Well first, we’re not talking about the sauce that pairs well with seafood and french fries. In the dental world, tartar is a hard, calcified substance that forms when plaque is not properly removed on a regular basis. So let’s talk about what happens when tartar forms, how you can prevent it, and how hydroxyapatite can help your teeth remain resilient against it. what is tartar, and why is it bad? Dental tartar is a bacteria-filled substance that forms when plaque hardens on your enamel. How does plaque harden? When it sits on your teeth for 24-72 hours. Yes, it’s that easy for tartar to form. That’s why a shocking 68% of adults have tartar...and why getting a deep clean from your dentist every six months is so important. Once this hardened substance bonds to your enamel, only dental professionals can remove it. They have special tools for this...because once tarter forms, brushing and flossing no longer cut it. If tartar is left untreated, it can lead to long-term issues like bad breath, cavities, gum disease, and gum recession. To avoid this, we’re covering some of the main ways you can prevent tartar buildup...and even cultivate resilience in the event that you do get it. best ways to prevent tartar buildup Practicing diligent oral care is the best way to prevent tartar buildup. You can start with these holistic oral care recommendations. Brush your teeth twice a day with Davids (for two minutes). While all of our toothpastes contain premium micro-abrasives that break down and remove plaque, our toothpaste with hydroxyapatite also remineralizes your enamel from the inside out...creating another line of defense against tartar. Choose the best toothbrush for you, and replace it every three months. Check out our previous article; it’ll help you decide which toothbrush is right for you. Remember, you use your toothbrush every day, so bacteria can live on it. Be sure to keep it clean and replace it every three months. Floss at least once every day, ideally before bed. Flossing is extremely important because it cleans the 40% of your teeth’s surfaces that are missed during brushing. Bacteria love to live in the tiny crevices between your teeth, so removing them is essential in preventing plaque and tartar buildup. Scrape your tongue to remove excess bacteria. Bacteria also love to live on the cushy surface of your tongue. It’s porous and grooved, making it the perfect place for bad bacteria to flourish. Our tongue scraper (coming soon) is a one-handed, stainless steel device that smoothly removes bacteria from your tongue, making your mouth feel fresher than ever. Use a natural mouthwash at least once daily to enhance bacteria removal. Our natural mouthwash (coming soon) also contains hydroxyapatite. It’s alcohol-free and fortified with xylitol which helps to enhance saliva flow, fight bad bacteria, and stabilize the pH of your mouth. Visit your dentist for a deep cleaning and checkup every six months. Even if you don’t think you need it, a deep cleaning is always beneficial. You may have tartar buildup without even knowing it! Eat a mouth-friendly diet. Did you know that fibrous fruits and vegetables can actually act as “exfoliants” for your teeth, breaking up plaque as you eat them? To read more about the importance of nutrition in dental health, check out our previous article written by Dr. Anu Isaac, DMD. Avoid harmful products like tobacco, alcohol, and excess sugar. All of these things actually feed bad bacteria by drying out your mouth and coating your teeth with starches and contribute to dental issues such as gum disease, cavities, and beyond. Now, let’s dive into the specifics of nano hydroxyapatite (n-HA) and how it can help your teeth build even more resilience against issues like tartar buildup. building resilience against tartar with nano hydroxyapatite (n-HA) Hydroxyapatite already exists in your tooth’s enamel; it actually makes up 97% of it! So when you brush regularly with hydroxyapatite toothpaste, the particles bind to your tooth’s surface, filling in any holes and imperfections that have been caused by bacteria and wear + tear. The nano hydroxyapatite particles penetrate your teeth, providing a mineral boost from the inside out. In fact, our lab results proved that Davids Sensitive + Whitening Nano-Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste outperformed six leading competitors (Apagard Premio, Boka, Colgate Sensitive, Risewell, Sensodyne Pronamel, and Toms Sensitive). Our formula effectively remineralizes the tooth’s enamel better than the rest...check out the results for yourself! When your enamel is strong and mineralized, it has an easier time “defending itself” when tartar forms. Adding hydroxyapatite toothpaste to your daily oral care routine is one of the easiest ways to build resilience against oral issues like tartar buildup, tooth sensitivity, and beyond. Buy Nano Hydroxyapatite Premium Toothpaste / Peppermint Now.
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our top five tips for staying motivated on your vegan lifestyle journey
Maintaining a vegan lifestyle isn’t always easy. Whether it’s work, travel, peer pressure, or a simple lack of motivation that’s challenging you....we’d like to share a few tips that could help boost your motivation when you need it the most. As a vegan toothpaste brand built on a mission to sustain nature+you, we want to do whatever we can to support you on this journey. 1: always keep your “why” in the forefront of your mind Whether your “why” is advocating for animal lives or reducing your environmental footprint (or both and then some), we recommend writing these reasons down and keeping them nearby. If your vegan lifestyle journey gets hard, you’ll want to look at your “why” to boost your motivation whenever you need to. For a little extra inspiration… The journey to making the best vegan toothpaste out there was no walk in the park. In fact, it took our founder Eric four years to perfect our plant based toothpaste. But he always kept his “why” in mind. He wanted Davids Natural Toothpaste to stand out from the rest, ensuring that it always sustains nature+you. Well, you can’t sustain nature without advocating for animal lives, so Eric made sure that: Davids has zero animal derived ingredients. Who knew that so many toothpastes on the market (even the natural toothpaste) contained animal fats? You can rest assured knowing that Davids contains no animal by products. Davids is never tested on animals. Maintaining the Leaping Bunny certification has always been a central part of our mission. We’re proud to offer you a certified cruelty free toothpaste. On top of this, our ingredients are safe, clean, effective, and sourced+derived from nature. 2: focus on progress over perfection Don’t let perfectionism hold you back. Instead of focusing on what you can’t seem to do, focus on what you can. Have you ever heard of reducetarianism? It’s the idea that your lifestyle does not have to be “all-or-nothing” to make a difference. Reducetarianism celebrates your effort to introduce small, sustainable changes into your everyday life. If thousands of people make small changes (like switching to vegan toothpaste!), and these changes compound over time...we might actually make a bigger difference than if just a few people achieved vegan perfection. We don’t say this to discourage you from seeking a fully vegan lifestyle. If that feels achievable for you (or if you’ve already been doing it for years), major props to you! But for those of you who are struggling to stay “on track,” try to focus on the things that feel doable right now. Swap out your self-care products. You can start by swapping your current toothpaste with our effective cruelty free toothpaste. Commit to meatless Mondays. Did you know that skipping one (quarter-pound) serving of beef on “Meatless Monday” could save 425 gallons of water and enough energy to power an iPhone for six months? If done for one year, it could eliminate the same amount of emissions that result from driving a car 348 miles. This goes to show that small, collective efforts compounded over time can make a real difference. Once you master these habits, we encourage you to reduce your use of animal products even further. 3: listen to your body When it comes to staying motivated on your journey as a vegan, it’s important that your body actually feels good. It’s hard to stick to anything that makes you feel less-than-awesome. That’s why it’s so important to listen to your body’s cues. Whether you’re experiencing bloating, hunger, fatigue, sensitive teeth, or anything else during your journey....it’s important to identify these things early on and make changes that will improve your experience. If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity or any other mouth-related issues, we first recommend visiting your dentist for an evaluation. Once you ensure everything is okay, we recommend brushing twice daily with our sensitive+whitening hydroxyapatite toothpaste. Hydroxyapatite is a mineral derived from calcium that already exists naturally in your teeth. It’s common (but not a sure thing) that many vegans do not get enough calcium in their diet, so it’s important to supplement with hydroxyapatite toothpaste. The nano-particles in our hydroxyapatite toothpaste will bind to and penetrate the outer surface of your teeth, remineralizing your teeth from the inside out. This can help relieve sensitivity and ensure your teeth stay strong and resilient throughout your vegan journey. 4: eat whole, nutrient-dense foods Filling your diet with whole, nutrient-dense foods can also help you give your body what it needs to thrive. Specific plant based foods (in tandem with plant based toothpaste) have the power to promote your oral health, gut health, and overall health. If you’re wondering about the importance of nutrition for your dental health, check out our previous article here. While this article includes some non-vegan foods, Dr. Anu Isaac, DMD provides awesome advice on which foods to add to your diet to promote your oral health...and which ones to avoid. You’ll also want to check out our guide for choosing foods that administer necessary nutrients to your teeth....some of which include fibrous fruits, leafy greens, and plenty of nuts and seeds. 5: keep your favorite products stocked Whether your favorite vegan product is a plant based protein bar, a luxurious lotion, or Davids Natural Toothpaste, stay prepared by stocking up. If you’re not prepared, you might find yourself in a situation where you don’t have access to your favorite vegan products....or any vegan products at all! (By the way, you can find some of our favorite vegan swaps for your everyday self-care products here.) We want to make it easy for you to always have vegan toothpaste on hand. That’s why we’ve developed six delicious flavors including our hydroxyapatite toothpaste and NEW kids + adults strawberry watermelon toothpaste....and two travel-sized tubes, too! Stock up on your favorite flavors before you need to. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself later. buy now.
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children's oral health FAQ + why Davids is the best toothpaste for toddlers and beyond
1: when should my child start brushing with toothpaste? Most dental professionals agree that children are ready to start brushing around the age of 2. It’s important to note that most of the concern regarding this timing centers around a child’s tendency to ingest toothpaste. Most dental professionals don’t recommend brushing before 2 (or after 2 without supervision) because many kids will swallow the toothpaste (after all, it tastes good), which is a problem if that toothpaste contains fluoride and other chemicals. (Note: all ADA-approved toothpastes contain fluoride.) With Davids Natural Toothpaste, you don’t have to worry about this at all. Our toothpaste contains ingredients sourced and derived from nature....and avoids ingredients of concern. Because of this, our toothpaste is safe in the hands of your child. They can actually swallow it with no harm, although we find you get more bang for your buck if they actually use it to brush their teeth. Our NEW strawberry watermelon toothpaste is the perfect toothpaste to get your child started on their oral care routine. Actually, it’s made for adults too, so it’s a great option for the whole family. 2: why is kids oral care so important if their teeth are going to fall out anyway? Healthy baby teeth are so important. Not only do they help them learn how to chew and talk, but they set the stage for your kiddos’ permanent teeth. Your child has a better chance of growing straight and healthy permanent teeth if their baby teeth remain in good health. Bacteria and other oral pathogens can actually transfer from the compromised baby tooth to the permanent tooth that’s developing underneath it. Plus, if a baby tooth decays, it can fall out early. This can cause the adult teeth to grow crooked or damaged. 3: what’s the leading cause of cavities in children? Cavities are a result of bacteria and plaque buildup. High levels of bacteria in your child’s mouth are caused by many different things, some of which include: A high-sugar diet Juice/sugary drinks throughout the night Poor oral hygiene Low saliva flow (dry mouth) Sharing utensils or drinking cups To prevent cavities, be sure to teach them proper oral care habits...such as not sharing food and drinks with others, not eating sugary snacks before bed or during the night, flossing, and brushing for 2 minutes twice a day with an effective toothpaste like Davids. Our natural toothpaste works to reduce plaque, fight bad bacteria, and neutralize your kiddo’s mouth. Our hydroxyapatite toothpaste also works to repair+strengthen the enamel, creating a tougher defense against cavity-causing bacteria. 4: which is more important for my kids oral health: brushing or diet? We hate to break it to you, but oral health depends on both good brushing habits and a mouth-friendly diet. You can’t out-brush a bad diet and vice versa. As Dr. Mark Burhenne of Ask the Dentist explains, a diet rich in whole foods such as ethically-raised animal meats, butter, seeds, and leafy greens is great for strong and healthy teeth. It’s important that your kiddos eat more foods like this....and fewer simple starches and sugars. 5: how can I help my child with sensitive teeth? First, understand the cause of tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity occurs when the tooth enamel (the hard outer layer) gets worn down or damaged by bacteria, acids, scratching from hard foods, and the like. Once the enamel is damaged, it can expose the “tubules” (little holes/pathways) that lead to the tooth’s center nerve. Hot and cold substances (or even just air) can cause sensitivity because these outside forces now have “access” to the tooth’s center nerve. The best way to combat tooth sensitivity is to repair the enamel, and you can accomplish this using hydroxyapatite toothpaste. In our third-party lab testing, we found that Davids Sensitive+Whitening Nano-Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste outperformed leading competitors by successfully plugging exposed tubules. On top of this, be sure that your child is flossing daily and brushing twice daily. Consistency is key when it comes to childrens oral health. 6: when should I start bringing my child to the dentist? It’s recommended that you bring your child to the dentist around the 1-year mark...or within 6 months of their first tooth. During this visit, the dentist should cover the management of certain oral habits such as thumb sucking and teething and assess the development of your child’s teeth, gums, and jawline. Your kids oral health will also reach various milestones, which we’ve outlined below. age 4: by this age, it’s critical to correct any bad (lingering) oral habits such as thumb sucking. Your dentist can help you develop strategies to wean your child off these habits. age 7: this is when your child’s molars grow in. At this point, a dentist or orthodontist can evaluate your child’s bite and identify any potential problems, allowing you to create a plan to solve any issues. However, if your child has any sensitivity or complaints regarding their teeth between these milestones, consider bringing them in between these milestones. 7: should my child use fluoride toothpaste or natural toothpaste? While we can’t make this decision for you, we can say that too much fluoride can cause problems. When it comes to fluoride, there’s always the risk of fluorosis (especially when in the hands of little ones who tend to use more toothpaste than they need). Fluorosis can occur when the body gets too much fluoride in the first 8 years of life, which can cause permanent teeth to appear discolored once they grow in. It can also cause other adverse side effects. This is why fluoride toothpaste always has a poison control warning....and experts recommend watching your child as they brush, so you can be sure they’re not ingesting too much fluoride. With natural toothpaste, you don’t have to worry about any of these things. Our toothpaste does not contain fluoride, and it’s actually safe to ingest. If your child enjoys minty flavored toothpaste, we recommend our nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste, which is comparable to fluoride, as it works to repair and strengthen the enamel from the inside out. However, unlike fluoride, hydroxyapatite is a natural substance that already exists in your (and your child’s) body. If your kiddo prefers fruity flavored toothpaste, try our NEW strawberry watermelon flavor! It’s safe and fun for the whole family. 8: how can hydroxyapatite toothpaste promote kids oral health? There are so many ways that hydroxyapatite toothpaste can promote childrens oral health. There are several studies that prove hydroxyapatite is effective in reducing dental caries and tooth sensitivity, especially in children. When hydroxyapatite is added into your kids oral care routine at a young age, its remineralizing powers can work to strengthen young teeth before any decay occurs. Hydroxyapatite already exists naturally in the human body. In fact, it makes up 90% of the tooth’s enamel. But over time, the body’s natural supply of hydroxyapatite can diminish, and the enamel can weaken. That’s why it’s so important to be sure to replenish the supply with daily brushing. When kids do this starting at a young age, they set themselves up for strong and healthy teeth that are equipped to withstand the tests of time....and all the bacteria that accumulate during that time. 9: what should my kids oral care routine include? First, we recommend reading our previous article, how to make your child’s brushing routine fun and effective. In that article, we outline a fun kids oral care routine that looks something like this. Grab a bamboo toothbrush and natural kids toothpaste. We recommend our NEW strawberry watermelon flavor for kids + adults. Add a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, but rest easy knowing your little one can safely swallow our natural toothpaste. Hold the bamboo toothbrush so that it’s more-or-less facing the gums. Gently move the toothbrush back and forth on each tooth using short+gentle strokes. Brush the tongue thoroughly to remove the film of bacteria. Teach them to floss. You should begin this once your child’s teeth begin to touch. In addition to these steps, it’s important to lead by example. Your kids are always watching you, so you’ll want to make sure you’re modeling healthy oral care habits too! 10: why is Davids the best toothpaste for toddlers, growing children, and even adults? There are so many reasons Davids is the best toothpaste for toddlers and beyond. We provide several fun kinds of natural toothpaste, all of which are free of chemicals, toxic ingredients, artificial ingredients, and unnecessary fillers. Every ingredient is there to promote your children's oral health. All of our flavors are safe, so you don’t have to worry about what happens when they get a hold of that toothpaste tube. We provide both enamel-strengthening sensitive nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste and fun fruity flavors like our NEW strawberry watermelon toothpaste. Our toothpaste is formulated with your (and your kiddo’s) holistic health in mind. This means we view oral health as a single component of overall health, and we chose our premium ingredients based on this ethos. See for yourself why Davids is the best natural toothpaste for the whole family. buy now.
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why you're grinding your teeth + how can nano-hydroxyapatite help ease the effects
Do you wake up in the middle of the night with your teeth clenched? Or find that you're holding your tension in your jaw throughout the day? Teeth grinding/clenching (bruxism) is a common problem. It’s estimated that 1 in 3 adults experience it throughout the day, while 1 in 10 adults experience it throughout the night. The thing is, teeth grinding is not an easy problem to treat since there are so many different causes and impacts. Today, we’re going to discuss some of the common ones....since awareness is one of the first steps to understanding, evaluating, and adjusting the things that might be causing your chronic clenching. what causes grinding teeth? It’s likely that several factors are contributing to your chronic teeth grinding. We’ve listed some of the common ones below. We encourage you to make a mental note of the ones that pertain to you. Daytime teeth grinding is often associated with: stress anxiety tension acid reflux concentration Nighttime teeth grinding is often associated with: sleep apnea smoking drinking drug use excess caffeine consumption parasitic infection Keep in mind that certain medications (such as SSRIs) can also contribute to teeth grinding throughout the day or night. On top of this, mineral deficiencies such as low calcium + vitamin D levels and low magnesium levels have been known to play a role in clenching, too. what are some side effects of grinding teeth? Those of you who have dealt with teeth grinding are very aware of its side effects, some of which are listed below. sore jaw muscles: these muscles may appear more prominent (your jaw may look bigger/wider) after years of clenching, too. ear aches: have you ever thought you had an ear infection, but the doctor tells you it’s really just tightness from clenching your jaw? tension headaches: these typically feel like someone is squeezing your head, and the pain can be felt all around your head (rather than just in one particular area). tooth damage: over time, teeth grinding can “wear down” your teeth. In serious cases, it can even cause tooth fractures. tooth pain: teeth grinding can wear down your enamel, which can expose the tubules in your teeth that lead to your center nerve. This can cause sensitivity and pain. restricted range of motion in the jaw: tightness in this muscle can make it difficult to use your jaw's full range of motion. It can also make chewing feel painful and frustrating. temporomandibular joints (TMJ): located near your ears, TMJ can produce a clicking sound when you open and close your mouth. It’s clear that teeth clenching can impact your long-term health in many different ways, so we want to help you do everything you can to manage these symptoms. We’ve provided some advice on relief below. how to relieve tooth pain from grinding Since we’re a toothpaste brand, it’s only natural that we focus on the tooth-related side effects of bruxism. But don’t worry, we’ll touch on tips for a few other symptoms too. nano-hydroxyapatite (n-Ha) In regards to tooth pain, one of the best things you can do to manage it is to protect and remineralize your enamel with nano-hydroxyapatite. As discussed in our previous article, brushing daily with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste can actually help to restore your enamel even after it's been damaged, so it’s one of the best methods for relieving tooth pain from grinding. You see, hydroxyapatite already naturally exists in your enamel, making up 97% of your enamel and 80% of your dentin (the layer right beneath the enamel). We also discussed that teeth grinding can be caused by calcium deficiency, and hydroxyapatite can help with that too! It’s a calcium-based mineral (calcium phosphate to be exact), so it’s a great supplement to replenish this mineral to keep your enamel healthy. Not to mention, nano-hydroxyapatite utilizes tiny particles to bind to the enamel to fill small holes, scratches, and depressions caused by bacteria and grinding. On top of that, our hydroxyapatite toothpaste has proven effective in reducing sensitivity. In our third-party lab test, Davids Sensitive + Whitening Nano-Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste outperformed other leading sensitive toothpastes from brands such as Apagard Premio, Boka, Colgate Sensitive, Risewell, Sensodyne Pronamel, and Tom’s Sensitive. Our formula was the most effective at plugging existing holes in the enamel (see photo evidence below), strengthening damaged areas to provide tooth sensitivity relief. This is amazing news for those of you who are dealing with sensitivity from teeth grinding and beyond! stress management Now, how can you treat the other pesky symptoms like headaches, ear aches, and jaw soreness? Our number one tip: stress management. We encourage you to practice habits such as meditation, mindfulness, hydration, movement, avoiding harmful substances, eating a balanced diet, detoxing your self-care routine, and sleep hygiene to reduce your body’s stress load and support your parasympathetic nervous system (the one that’s responsible for resting + digesting). Reducing your overall stress can work wonders on chronic teeth grinding...and a host of other issues that you may experience on a daily basis. (Note: We also encourage you to visit your dentist to talk about the best course of action for treating your bruxism. If habitual changes do not produce positive results, your dentist may suggest a mouth guard or a specific dental procedure.) On the subject of detoxing your self-care routine, natural toothpaste is the perfect place to start. Davids is formulated with intentional ingredients derived from nature. And our sensitive toothpaste adds the enamel-strengthening powers of hydroxyapatite to your daily routine. Why not give it a go? Buy Nano Hydroxyapatite Premium Toothpaste Now.
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why use a tongue scraper? 5 little known facts about its benefits
Tongue scrapers have been taking the oral care world by storm. In light of their (well deserved) popularity, we’re discussing some of the little-known facts about them to reaffirm that the benefits of tongue scrapers extend far beyond the obvious squeaky clean tongue. 1: tongue scraping has been around for centuries You may have just recently learned about tongue scraping, but did you know that it dates back to ancient times? Tongue scraping is part of the daily ritual of Ayurveda, one of the oldest holistic healing practices in the world. It originated in India over 3,000 years ago, and many of its practices are still used worldwide today. Over the centuries, tongue scrapers have been made of metal (even sterling silver), wood, mother-of-pearl, whalebone, tortoiseshell, and more. Its popularity throughout the years reaffirms it’s an effective practice that has been loved and passed down by many. 2: tongue scraping can reduce your body’s toxic load Ayurveda upholds the idea that your tongue is directly connected to several of your vital organs such as the heart, liver, lungs, kidneys, stomach, and spleen. When you use a tongue scraper, you’re directly removing bacteria and toxins from your tongue while massaging and stimulating the tissue. As a result, this removes toxins and massages/stimulates the organs associated with the tongue, reducing your body’s overall toxic load and restoring internal balance. 3: tongue scraping can improve your digestion and gut health Your oral microbiome and gut microbiome are very closely connected. To learn more about this, we recommend going back and reading the articles listed below. your mouth's special role in aiding digestion and taming inflammation: this article discusses how digestion begins in the mouth, where the enzymes in your saliva begin breaking down food and continue the process of digestion in your gut wondering how your oral microbiome impacts your overall health?: this article discusses the hundreds of types of bacteria in your oral microbiome and why an imbalance in these species can impact the health of your gut Now, back to tongue scraping. Cleaning your tongue is a critical part of maintaining a healthy bacterial balance in your oral microbiome. Tongue scraping allows you to tame the number of bad bacteria in your mouth while allowing good bacteria to flourish. This is important to note because other oral care products (such as alcohol mouthwash) can completely wipe out all of the good and bad bacteria in your mouth. We don’t want that! In short, tongue scraping allows you to maintain bacterial balance in your mouth, which can work wonders for the delicate bacterial balance in your gut. This makes for better digestion and overall health. 4: it’s important to use a tongue scraper first thing in the morning On the subject of bacterial balance in your oral microbiome....did you know it’s important to thoroughly clean your mouth first thing in the morning? When you’re sleeping, your mouth reduces its saliva production. You’re also not eating and drinking throughout the night, so your mouth isn’t getting “flushed” as often as it is throughout the day. This gives bacteria the perfect opportunity to grow and multiply overnight. If you were to take a big gulp of water or bite of food first thing in the morning, you’d be swallowing many of these bacteria. Instead, we recommend thoroughly cleaning your mouth first thing. This includes: rinsing with water to add some moisture back into your mouth brushing with Davids, as our intentional ingredients like peppermint oils, xylitol, baking soda, silica, vegetable glycerin, and more work to moisturize your mouth, break down plaque, reduce bacteria, whiten and polish your teeth, and freshen your breath tongue scraping right after brushing with Davids to remove stubborn bacteria from the cushy, grooved surface of your tongue that can so easily hang onto pathogens If you’re not already tongue scraping in the morning, give it a try. Trust us when we say you’ll notice a difference in freshness right away. 5: the specific design and material can enhance the benefits of a tongue scraper Tongue scrapers come in many different shapes and materials. In terms of shape, you’ll typically only find single-hand and double-hand (arch-shaped) tongue scrapers. But in terms of material, you’ll find metal tongue scrapers made from copper and stainless steel, and you’ll even find some tongue scrapers made with plastic and bristles. So, which one makes for the best tongue scraper? In terms of shape, we prefer single-handed tongue scrapers like the tongue sweeper model P. It was designed by a dentist, and it’s the only tongue scraper used by leading dental schools. It’s easy to grip and maneuver, allowing you to reach the entire surface of your tongue....and reduce the chances of triggering your gag reflex as you scrape. You’ll notice that this model has a stainless steel head, which is our personal favorite material. Of course, we prefer metal tongue scrapers over plastic, as they’re dishwasher safe and infinitely reusable….and we’re not the type to contribute to plastic pollution. We also prefer stainless steel over copper, as copper can sometimes bend out of shape easily or develop sharp edges. stay tuned While we’re on the topic of tongue scrapers, we figured we’d remind you that a new Davids product launch is around the corner. Hint: it cleans your tongue, it’s stainless steel, and it has a one-handed grip design. In the meantime, we recommend stocking up on the best natural toothpaste, so you can pair your tongue scraping with intentional ingredients that prioritize your holistic health. buy now.
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