Davids blog
can enamel be restored? with the help of hydroxyapatite, it can be
Every day, bacteria and acids they produce work to weaken your enamel. In the dental world, this process is called demineralization. But don’t worry, with the right tools, there are so many things you can do to counteract demineralization. You just have to focus on habits (say, daily brushing with hydroxyapatite toothpaste) that give your body the opportunity to replenish the minerals that have been lost. In the dental world, this process is called remineralization. During remineralization, you’re supplying your enamel with nutrients like calcium and phosphorus. These elements bond together to form hydroxyapatite, which penetrates weak spots in your enamel that have been targeted by bacteria....and strengthens them from the inside out. You can think of your oral microbiome as a delicate ecosystem. You want to keep everything in balance to ensure that the demineralization doesn’t outweigh the remineralization. Otherwise, tooth decay can occur. But with knowledge, healthy habits, and the best hydroxyapatite toothpaste, you can be sure you’re doing your best to maintain balance and avoid tooth decay, naturally. how can enamel be restored? Conventional dentistry will tell you that fluoride is the secret to remineralization and the prevention of tooth decay. But research shows that fluoride remineralization is heavily influenced by variables such as saliva quality and patient compliance, whereas non-fluoride remineralization techniques are less reliant on such variables and can still drastically improve the structure and acid-resistance of the enamel. Enter nano-hydroxyapatite. Unlike fluoride, hydroxyapatite already naturally exists in your enamel. In fact, it composes roughly 97% of your enamel and 80% of your dentin, so it’s an essential mineral to replenish if you want to keep your enamel strong and healthy. Because of its nano-particle size and its natural existence in your enamel, nano-hydroxyapatite has the unique ability to bond with proteins in your mouth to provide enamel repair, filling in small holes and depressions caused by bacteria and acids. In addition to daily brushing with hydroxyapatite toothpaste, we recommend focusing on the following for enamel repair. maintain a healthy pH: acidic drinks like sports drinks, alcohol, and coffee are the biggest culprits to look out for. First, limit your intake of these drinks. If you decide to indulge, be sure to finish them in a short sitting (to reduce repeated exposure) and flush your mouth with water right after. It’s important to note that you shouldn’t be brushing your teeth directly after consuming an acidic food/drink, as your enamel is in a weakened state. Other factors can also disrupt the pH of your mouth, including acid reflux, mouth breath, and snoring. eat a mouth-healthy diet: as mentioned above, limit your mouth’s exposure to acidic/sugary foods and drinks, and instead focus on consuming mouth-healthy substances like water, dairy, lean protein, fibrous fruits + veggies, and healthy nuts + seeds. You can read more about the importance of nutrition for dental health here. support saliva production: if you’re brushing with Davids, you’re already doing something to support your saliva production. Our peppermint oils, xylitol, glycerin, and hydroxyapatite work together to facilitate saliva production. You can learn more about promoting saliva production, avoiding dry mouth, and the importance of Davids in our dry mouth FAQ here. have a holistic oral care routine: effective remineralization doesn’t stop at brushing with hydroxyapatite toothpaste. We recommend supplementing Davids with a healthy flossing routine (our friends at CocoFloss can help with that), tongue scraping (be on the lookout for a new launch coming soon), and oil pulling. Check out our list of product recommendations here. keep tabs on your tooth sensitivity: if you already have noticeably sensitive teeth, one key way to determine if hydroxyapatite is “working” is to keep tabs on your sensitivity. As hydroxyapatite works to remineralize your enamel and plug the exposed “holes” that lead to your tooth’s center nerve, you should experience noticeable tooth sensitivity relief. Always remember that prevention is your best friend when it comes to maintaining a healthy oral microbiome. You want to prioritize remineralization before your enamel reaches the point of permanent damage/decay. at what point is the demineralization irreversible? Many dentists say that small (early) cavities can still be reversed....sometimes. This requires diligent cleaning and application of remineralizing agents like hydroxyapatite toothpaste. On the other hand, once the enamel is weakened enough for the decay to reach the softer layer below (the dentin), a permanent hole can form, leaving a cavity. At this point, demineralization has outweighed the remineralization, and your enamel has been stripped. Remineralization with hydroxyapatite won’t reverse the damage because your enamel cannot regrow (it’s not living tissue). Remineralization can only strengthen the enamel that’s still physically there. This is why you want to focus on remineralizing your enamel before your dentist notices a cavity (even if it’s a small one). what’s so special about our hydroxyapatite toothpaste? We’ve discussed why hydroxyapatite is so essential to the process of enamel repair. But with so many options out there, how do you know which hydroxyapatite toothpaste to choose? You may think we’re biased, because...well, we are. We naturally think our hydroxyapatite toothpaste is the best on the block. But you’re in luck....because our third-party test results are not biased. We hired a trusted third-party lab to compare Davids Sensitive + Whitening Nano-Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste to our leading “sensitive toothpaste” competitors: Apagard Premio, Boka, Colgate Sensitive, Risewell, Sensodyne Pronamel, and Tom’s Sensitive. When examining the results, you can literally see (below) that our hydroxyapatite toothpaste was the most effective at plugging existing holes in the enamel, remineralizing weakened areas to provide tooth sensitivity relief and guard against decay. Try it out yourself. What do you have to lose (besides enamel damage and sensitivity)? Buy Nano Hydroxyapatite Premium Toothpaste / Peppermint Now.
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spring clean your vegan oral care routine with Davids + these seasonal foods
You may know this about us already, but we’re huge advocates of holistic oral health. What exactly does that mean? It means cultivating oral health from every angle...your oral hygiene routine, your supplements, your sleep habits, your stress management, and your gut health. And all of these things involve your diet. Not only do foods have the power to make or (literally) break the surface of your teeth, they provide you with essential nutrients to promote gut health, mental health, oral health, and more. As a vegan, it can be a little bit trickier to ensure you’re getting the best nutrients for your oral health through your diet alone. That’s exactly why we’re sharing some fresh spring foods that are amazing for your oral health. Oh, and that’s also why we’ve created the best natural vegan toothpaste on the market. Not to mention, one of these vegan toothpastes is fortified with nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA), one of the best natural substances for strengthening your enamel and promoting oral health and longevity. 1: mint Mint doesn’t just freshen your breath. It actually has natural antibacterial properties, allowing it to tame the growth of bad bacteria in your mouth. It plays a huge role in maintaining a healthy bacterial balance in your mouth (which is also super important for your gut). On top of that, mint is also anti-inflammatory. This means that it can ease pain, reduce sensitivity, and soothe swelling and redness. Last but not least, mint is rich in vitamins and minerals, and it increases saliva production! Saliva helps with flushing bacteria, breaking down food for digestion, and preventing dry mouth....all of which are essential for your overall oral health! Depending on the flavor, you’ll find peppermint oil and spearmint oil in our vegan toothpaste. We’ve developed custom mint blends that are ultra-premium and sourced+produced here in the USA. 2: strawberries This sweet spring treat is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber, and more, so strawberries naturally benefit your immune system and overall health. They may be red, but did you know that they actually have the ability to whiten your teeth? Strawberries contain malic acid, which naturally works to whiten your enamel. Take that fun fact with a grain of salt though, as fruit could never replace the whitening power of a carefully formulated substance like our vegan toothpaste....which contains baking soda, hydrated silica, calcium carbonate, and more to keep your pearly whites shining. 3: carrots Carrots are nutritious, fibrous, and rich in vitamin A. Vitamin A boosts saliva production, and saliva naturally flushes damaging acids from the surface of your teeth. It also helps to produce the wet coating on your gums and cheeks, making it harder for microorganisms and oral pathogens to get comfy inside your oral microbiome. For an added benefit, pair your carrots with some celery, as it’s rich in water, antioxidants, vitamin C, and vitamin A, too! 4: apples Some people call apples “nature’s toothbrush,” but we still think you should keep your real toothbrush. Not only do raw, fibrous fruits like apples supply you with essential vitamins and nutrients, but they also have the ability to “exfoliate” and clean the surface of your teeth as you eat them. 5: leafy greens Leafy greens offer essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin A, vitamin C, and phosphorus, all of which work to keep your teeth strong and resistant to wear/decay. In the spring, the following leafy greens are in peak season: kale swiss chard spinach cabbage collard greens Take your pick! When you eat them whole, their textured surfaces also work on polishing the surface of your teeth. But if you get tired of them, try hiding them in smoothies to get that extra nutrient boost throughout your day. 6: nuts and seeds Various nuts and seeds like almonds, brazil nuts, walnuts, chia seeds, and more are rich in calcium, protein, and phosphorus. Together, calcium and phosphorus create calcium phosphate, a substance that strengthens your bones and teeth, making them more resilient to damage and decay. make hydroxyapatite a habit Of course, our vegan toothpaste provides your mouth with intentional ingredients that work together to break down plaque, reduce bad bacteria, cleanse, exfoliate, and whiten your teeth. But as a vegan, because you’re not consuming any calcium-rich animal products or animal byproducts, it’s important to make hydroxyapatite a habit. Hydroxyapatite is a calcium-based mineral that already exists in your enamel and dentin, so brushing daily with hydroxyapatite toothpaste can replenish nutrients that have been stripped away through normal wear and tear. Because of its small particle size and natural occurrence in your body, nano-hydroxyapatite has the unique ability to bind to your tooth’s enamel, remineralizing any damage from the inside out. Our third-party lab results show that regular brushing with our nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste can plug and remineralize tubules (holes) and imperfections in your enamel, reducing sensitivity and promoting long-term oral health. In addition to a healthy diet, it’s one of the best things you can add to your vegan oral care routine. Don’t just take our word for it...see for yourself! buy now.
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five things you need to know about abrasives in toothpaste
You’ve heard of exfoliators for your skin, but now it’s time to talk about exfoliators for your pearly whites! Abrasives in toothpaste (at least, the safe + high-quality ones) are ingredients that are coarse enough to break up the plaque on your teeth but gentle enough to keep your enamel healthy. Remember the enamel? We talk about it all the time. It’s the hard outer shell of your tooth that protects the vulnerable, essential stuff underneath (nerves, tissues, etc.), allowing your tooth to withstand physical, thermal, and chemical interactions. Because your enamel is so important, abrasive ingredients often get a bad rap. There’s a very delicate balance between cleaning the enamel and avoiding enamel wear + tear that must be maintained to achieve effective oral care. Plus, there are so many toothpastes on the market that utilize harsh, low-quality abrasives that ultimately have a net negative effect on your oral health. That’s why we feel like it’s so important to discuss the details about abrasives in toothpaste....and how the abrasives in Davids are natural, safe, and effective. 1: abrasives in toothpastes can be beneficial So, you might be wondering, if abrasives pose any threat to the beloved enamel, why not just ditch them altogether? Well, because they bring a lot of benefits for your teeth (when done right). The main role of an abrasive ingredient is to break up + remove plaque from your enamel, kinda like exfoliating your skin removes dead cells and toxins. Removing plaque from your tooth’s surface is the number one defense against tooth decay. This stops the bad bacteria from getting comfortable and settling in on the gooey film on your teeth...eventually eating through your enamel and causing a cavity. This is one reason why it’s so important to find safe abrasives that get the job done without harming your enamel in the process (that would defeat the purpose). Plus, abrasives in toothpaste are proven effective in removing surface stains + polishing your pearly whites. Using safe, gentle abrasives in your toothpaste is a win, win! 2: toothpastes are scored by Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA) Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA) is a standardized scale used to measure the potential damaging effects of abrasives in toothpaste. The ADA recommends using toothpaste with an RDA rating below 250. Depending on the flavor, Davids falls between 101-111, which is well within the safety recommendation! You’ll notice on any toothpaste abrasiveness chart that products with big whitening claims like “extra whitening” and “ultra-bright” are generally higher on the RDA scale. That’s because these toothpastes utilize harsher abrasives to get rid of surface stains. Be wary of these toothpastes, as their whitening effects may come at a much bigger price: the health of your enamel. 3: tooth wear involves a lot more than abrasive toothpaste When it comes to damaging your enamel, there’s a lot more at play than simply the RDA of your toothpaste. Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD, explains that there are three primary factors that contribute to tooth wear. Abrasion: interaction between the teeth and other materials (aka, abrasive toothpaste) Attrition: tooth-to-tooth contact Erosion: wear due to acids from your environment and/or diet A scientific survey reveals that out of the 100 cases of problematic tooth wear, 58% were attributed to erosion alone. In contrast, zero cases were attributed to abrasion alone. In fact, research shows that normal toothbrushing with products within RDA limits will cause virtually no wear on the enamel over the course of a lifetime. 4: you know your mouth the best When it comes to deciding what’s “too abrasive,” hone in on how your mouth actually feels when you use abrasive toothpaste. Here are a few tips to help: When you try a new abrasive toothpaste, make sure you’re using the same toothbrush. That way, you know if it causes discomfort it’s actually because of the toothpaste....not because your toothbrush bristles are too “hard” for your mouth. The same tip above goes for mouthwash, floss, and other oral care products. You want the toothpaste to be the only variable in this experiment. Avoid rigorous brushing when using abrasive toothpaste. Practicing mindfulness during your oral care routine can help with this! Write down if you feel any discomfort after several uses. Common discomforts associated with enamel wear include tooth/gum sensitivity, bleeding, pain when consuming hot/cold items, and gum recession. Visit your dentist to have them examine your mouth. Relay the notes you took on the discomforts associated with your new toothpaste and ask for a recommendation. That being said, many Davids users have confirmed that our natural toothpaste works wonders for their sensitive teeth...with no discomfort! The high-grade, micro-abrasives in Davids are sourced and derived from nature, ultra-fine, and non-gritty. They allow for a smooth and creamy paste that’s ideal for people with sensitive teeth....yet still effective in reducing plaque and whitening your teeth. 5: Davids contains the highest-quality mild abrasives The quality of abrasive ingredients plays a critical role in the safety + efficacy of your toothpaste. This may seem obvious, but you’d be surprised by how many companies are getting away with low-quality abrasive ingredients (even some natural brands)! The sourcing, handling, and processing of the ingredient are critical...which is why we take so much pride in using high-quality, naturally sourced, naturally derived, and 98% USA-origin ingredients. This sets our ingredients apart from the rest and squashes any worries you may still have about abrasive toothpaste. Let’s take a closer look at the mild abrasive ingredients in Davids. Hydrated Silica: While Davids uses the highest quality, USA-made hydrated silica with ultra-fine particles, others use low-quality imported silica with large abrasive particles. What is hydrated silica? It’s a derivative of silica, a natural material that makes up 12% of the earth’s surface. Hydrated silica in toothpaste works to remove surface stains to whiten and polish your teeth. Calcium Carbonate: Another natural material, our calcium carbonate is mined from a quarry in Pennsylvania and processed to uphold the strictest purity standards. It works to assist hydrated silica on the quest to exfoliate, clean, and whiten your teeth. Baking Soda: Made with naturally occurring minerals and materials, baking soda is a common, mild abrasive used to remove surface stains and neutralize acids on your teeth (you know, the acids that caused 58% of tooth wear in the study mentioned in the previous section). Baking soda alone is rated as a seven on the RDA scale...only three scores above brushing your teeth with plain water! Our careful intention with selecting and producing these abrasives can make all the difference in cleaning, whitening, and protecting your enamel. That’s exactly why we (and a lot of other happy customers) believe Davids is the best natural toothpaste out here. buy now.
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why you may be having an allergic reaction to your toothpaste
Let’s be honest. When springtime comes around, seasonal allergies are a hot topic of conversation. Our itchy noses and throats, watery eyes, and more-than-occasional sneezing all have the power to disrupt our day. (By the way, if you don’t experience seasonal allergies, you basically hit the jackpot.) When we try a new skincare product and break out into a rash or discover a new food allergy, we’re usually quick to investigate it, tell stories about it, and steer cut out the culprit. But why are toothpaste allergies so seldom discussed? Well, there are a number of reasons, some of which include: Toothpaste allergies are generally less common than the allergies mentioned above. The mouth is a “taboo” place, and it can feel awkward to discuss it. We think: how can we even know the allergic reaction is coming from toothpaste? Toothpaste allergies present themselves in so many different forms. The list goes on. But if you’re someone who has ever experienced an allergic reaction to toothpaste, you probably want to understand the ins and outs of it. And if you haven’t experienced it, it never hurts to prepare! That’s exactly what we’re here to help with, and remind you of all the reasons that Davids makes a great toothpaste for people prone to allergies. common toothpaste allergies + their symptoms First off, toothpaste allergies are a real thing! So if you’ve been noticing irritation after switching to a new toothpaste, or you just want to be aware of the possibility of a toothpaste allergy in the future...you’re not crazy, and this information will help you! So, what are some common symptoms that stem from an allergic reaction to toothpaste? They depend on a wide range of conditions, but we’ve included some common symptoms below. Cheilitis: severe inflammation of the lips that causes dryness, redness, cracking, and itching. Often, it looks like red swollen patches at the corners of your mouth. Chapped lips: and we mean the kind of lip chapping that doesn’t go away with hydration and chapstick! Contact dermatitis: commonly known as a rash, which can occur around/near your mouth if you’re experiencing an allergic reaction to toothpaste. Irritation within the mouth: although, symptoms inside the mouth are less common and often harder to notice. But the severity of your allergic reaction will really depend on what specific ingredient(s) might be causing the problem. So let’s go through a few common allergens in toothpaste. Dyes: Have you ever tried a toothpaste that’s bright blue and sparkly? While it may look pretty, Blue 1 is a synthetic dye made from petroleum that’s believed to be linked to allergies and other health conditions. Artificial sweeteners: Many toothpastes contain saccharin since it can sweeten toothpaste without the dental harms of sugar. However, it can cause rashes and irritation around your mouth and other bodily discomforts. Artificial preservatives: Many conventional toothpastes use artificial preservatives such as parabens, which are known to cause irritation upon contact with the skin and mouth. Fragrance: Some conventional toothpastes also use fragrance to give the product a fresh smell. (We prefer to get our minty fresh smell from peppermint oils derived from nature). The umbrella “fragrance” is a very common allergen in skin care and oral care products. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS): You’ve probably heard us talk about this one before, but SLS is a foaming agent typically found in shampoo. Results of an SLS toothpaste allergy include canker sores and cheilitis. Fluoride: Unfortunately, this famous, enamel-strengthening ingredient is also a common allergen. Fluoride allergy symptoms include cuts or lesions in your mouth and swelling of your mouth, tongue, or face. If over ingested, fluoride can also cause symptoms like nausea, headaches, muscle weakness, and more. Gluten: Surprise! Due to its sticky nature, gluten is used in a lot of conventional toothpastes. In addition to digestive issues, gluten can cause rashes and irritation if you’re sensitive to it. If you’ve been experiencing some discomfort in your mouth, try checking for any of these ingredients in your current tube! how to identify why you’re having an allergic reaction to toothpaste In addition to observing your symptoms (some of which are outlined above), consider the following steps. Stop using the suspected toothpaste and switch back to your previous toothpaste. This is the easiest way to confirm if your toothpaste is the cause of your allergic reaction. Plus, by switching back to a previous one, you know you won’t be buying another tube that gives you the same trouble. Visit your doctor. The best way to get some answers is to talk with your doctor about your symptoms. Ask your doctor about the possibility of allergy testing. This can help you narrow down specific ingredients to avoid in future toothpaste purchases. Try a new allergy-friendly toothpaste, like Davids Natural Toothpaste. We know we’re biased, so we’ll stick to the facts. Davids completely avoids the common allergens mentioned in the previous section, so that’s quite promising! Let’s take a deeper dive into why Davids is a good toothpaste for allergies. why Davids is a great toothpaste for allergies Davids Natural Toothpaste never uses artificial flavors, preservatives, dyes, or fragrances. We’re proud that our toothpaste gets its minty-fresh scent+taste and keeps its freshness through naturally derived ingredients like peppermint, spearmint, xylitol, vegetable glycerin, and more! On top of that, Davids is an SLS-free toothpaste. In place of SLS, we use a gentle+mild foaming agent called sodium cocoyl glutamate that’s derived from coconut. It goes through an advanced processing system to ensure high quality and efficacy. Last, but certainly not least, Davids is a fluoride-free toothpaste. Even without fluoride, Davids works to remove plaque from your teeth, balance the bacteria in your mouth, polish and whiten your enamel, and work to prevent cavities. (As a side note, are you curious to learn about a natural alternative to fluoride toothpaste? It’s called hydroxyapatite toothpaste, and you can learn more about it in this article on our blog, and stay tuned for some future relevant announcements!) At the end of the day, we’re proud to offer a safe natural toothpaste that’s proven effective, even for some of the more sensitive mouths out there! If any of the information in this article resonated with your toothpaste experience, consider it a nudge from the universe to make Davids your toothpaste allergy alternative. buy now.
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is hydroxyapatite toothpaste safe for your kids?
Your little ones are brushing their own teeth. Well, by brushing we mean eating, swallowing, spitting, getting it up their noses, and making a mess. Anyways, we digress. With all the potential swallowing going on, it might have you thinking long and hard about what’s actually inside your “kids toothpaste” tube. If it’s a conventional kids' toothpaste, you’ve probably come across an unsettling list of ingredients. After all, what in the world are “trisodium phosphate” and “flavor”? You start looking for better, natural alternatives. You’ve found some natural toothpastes with fluoride and some with this funky-sounding ingredient called hydroxyapatite. That’s a long and weird word that doesn’t sound natural at all. Is it even safe for your kids? The answer is yes, and we’re here to explain how and why. So you can rest easy knowing that hydroxyapatite is not only safe for your kids to swallow, it’s also working wonders for their developing teeth. what the science says According to science, hydroxyapatite is not only safe for your kids, but it’s also effective in reducing cavities. The first company to sell commercial hydroxyapatite toothpaste, SANGI CO LTD, conducted a field study of 1,000 Japanese schoolchildren and found that the toothpaste reduced new caries by 36-56% over 3 years. No wonder hydroxyapatite has remained the gold standard of oral care in Japan for the last four decades. A 2018 study on Early Childhood Caries (ECC) confirms that it's critical to ensure your children are brushing their teeth to avoid ECC. This is obvious, but what’s not obvious is that non-toxic, remineralizing agents can effectively work to reduce ECC. The study explicitly recommends the use of hydroxyapatite, as it can be swallowed without posing risks of toxicity. Another study published in 2020 revealed that biomimetic, fluoride-free hydroxyapatite oral care products effectively reduce tooth decay, especially in children. A year-long clinical trial conducted in 2021 concluded that hydroxyapatite toothpaste is not inferior to fluoride in reducing enamel caries in children. In addition, it confirmed that (unlike fluoride) hydroxyapatite is highly biocompatible and does not pose harm if accidentally swallowed. This is just the tip of the iceberg of scientific evidence supporting the use of hydroxyapatite products in kids’ oral care routines. It’s non-toxic, and it gets the job done! why hydroxyapatite toothpaste is a safer option for kids When we say hydroxyapatite is non-toxic, you might be thinking, “Of course, why would anyone put a toxic ingredient in kids' toothpaste?” We ask ourselves the same question all the time. The truth is, other common cavity-preventing, enamel-strengthening ingredients can be toxic to the human body (especially the little ones that are rapidly developing). Let’s look at fluoride as an example. Fluoride in toothpaste alone isn’t a huge health threat to little ones. The problem occurs when your child consumes fluoride from several different sources in a single day. Common sources of fluoride include toothpastes, gels, dental treatments, mouthwash, lozenges, and some salts. With so many different sources of fluoride, it’s easy to ingest too much, which can lead to fluorosis in the body. Researchers explicitly state that children should avoid the use of high-concentrated fluoride products to avoid the potential side effects. After all, little ones tend to swallow products like toothpaste, gels, and mouthwashes more than adults. We don’t blame them, these products are often filled with tasty sweeteners and fun colors! Note: Every single one of our natural toothpastes (not just our hydroxyapatite toothpaste) is fluoride-free and SLS-free, and contains ingredients sourced and derived from nature. In other words, none of our natural toothpaste flavors pose the risk of chemical exposure. That’s why you’ll never find a Poison Control label on any of our tubes! why Davids hydroxyapatite toothpaste is great for kids What makes Davids the best hydroxyapatite toothpaste for kids? It provides true tooth sensitivity relief. Our hydroxyapatite toothpaste avoids the use of fluoride and chemical numbing agents....and instead treats and repairs sensitive teeth at the source. Because hydroxyapatite already naturally exists in your teeth and bones, it's able to easily bind to your tooth, penetrate the enamel, and strengthen it from the inside out. Our third-party lab results prove that Davids Sensitive + Whitening Nano Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste outperformed leading sensitive toothpastes, plugging exposed pathways (tubules) in the enamel that lead to the tooth’s center nerve. Some users experience tooth sensitivity relief and enamel repair in as little as 5 days! It does NOT contain dyes, fillers, preservatives, or harmful chemicals. Many conventional kids' toothpastes contain blue dyes, chemical foaming agents (SLS), chemical thickeners, and a vague form of “flavor.” Rest easy knowing Davids avoids all of these additives. It does contain intentional ingredients. We’re firm believers that a short list of intentional ingredients can go a long way. All of our naturally-derived ingredients serve a specific purpose in polishing, fortifying, and freshening your kids' (and your own) teeth. Check out our ingredient breakdown here! It’s EWG verified. Whew, we appreciate organizations like EWG who filter out harmful products for us. Our natural toothpaste is EWG verified, meaning it has received the highest rating + stamp of approval when evaluated using EWG's strict health and transparency standards. You can read more about why Davids is a great natural toothpaste here. But when you add hydroxyapatite to the mix, it becomes an unbeatable (+safe and effective) option for your kiddos. Buy Nano Hydroxyapatite Premium Toothpaste Now.
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get to know the important role of glycerin in your vegan toothpaste
As you’ll read in our first-ever blog post, most toothpastes on the market are not vegan. Many people (including some long-time vegans) are shocked to find this out! You see, toothpastes need humectants: gooey moisturizing ingredients that keep the toothpaste from drying out inside its tube. For many many years, glycerin has been the go-to humectant for toothpaste and other personal care products like soaps, lotions, conditioners, surface cleaners, and more. But what many people don’t realize is that conventional glycerin is derived from animal fat. In fact, throughout history, oral care pioneers used several different animal products to make their own toothpaste. Let’s dive into that history to understand why animal byproducts became so prevalent in self-care items....and discover how the Davids formula pushes the envelope and uses vegetable glycerin to provide the best vegan toothpaste out there. a glimpse into the history of toothpaste To better understand how animal fat became the go-to humectant in toothpaste, let’s take a look at the history of toothpaste. Dating back to 3,000 BC, ancient Egyptians developed toothpastes made from oxen hooves, eggshells, myrrh, pumice, and water. It’s also said that ancient Chinese toothpaste mixtures were composed of ground fish bones, while ancient Greeks and Romans used crushed bones and oyster shells to create their pastes. While none of these sound particularly appealing or gentle on the enamel, they had the right idea. In fact, pumice mixtures are still used by dental professionals to clean and polish patients’ teeth, and conventional toothpastes are still using animal products to achieve the desired consistency and polishing effect. When you see that old mixtures used oxen hooves and fish bones, it’s not so “out there” to think about animal fat in most toothpastes (and so many other household products)! However, when our founder, Eric, was on his four-year journey of perfecting the Davids formula, it was very important to him to create a vegan toothpaste that preserves the consistency, quality, and efficacy of non-vegan toothpaste. At the time, Eric was frustrated by the not-so-great ingredients used in toothpaste, even the “natural” toothpastes on the market. He wanted to create the best natural vegan toothpaste out there....one that sustains nature+you by respecting animal lives, utilizing ingredients sourced and derived from nature, and effectively working to remove plaque, whiten your teeth, and freshen your breath. This was no easy feat....no wonder it took four years to perfect the Davids formula! how is Davids’ glycerin different? After all that talk about animal fat, you might be wondering how our plant-based toothpaste even contains glycerin. We use vegetable glycerin in our vegan toothpaste. It’s made with vegetable oil derived from soy plants that are processed into a pure, food-grade ingredient. During processing, the glycerin separates from the fatty acids in the oil to form the syrup-like liquid that gives your vegan toothpaste it's thick and creamy texture. Davids is also a certified cruelty-free toothpaste. You’ll notice that all of our tubes sport the Leaping Bunny certification, which is the only globally-recognized seal confirming that the development of the product avoids animal testing at every step. On top of this, the vegetable glycerin in Davids is produced domestically in the US, while many other companies import vegetable glycerin from around the world (typically from Malaysia). This further reduces the carbon footprint of our sourcing and manufacturing process....and also allows us to support American jobs! is glycerin bad for your teeth, or does glycerin cause demineralization? There is an old internet rumor that glycerin coats your teeth and causes your teeth to demineralize….simply untrue. The next time you see this posted online, contact the person who did a cut/paste on this misinformation, and ask them to provide the study that shows this to be true….there is no study showing this. If this false rumor was true then there would be an epidemic of people having demineralized teeth, since it’s one of the most common ingredients in toothpaste. The reality is actually the opposite! Glycerin works to moisten your mouth which helps remineralize your teeth! so, what does glycerin actually do? On top of giving your vegan toothpaste its gooey consistency, our vegetable glycerin also works to: prevent / reduce dry mouth: glycerin is proven to moisten your mouth by activating your salivary glands. Because dry mouth is a result of under-performing salivary glands, glycerin works directly to prevent and/or reduce this condition! By doing so, it consequently enhances your taste, aids your digestion, and neutralizes harmful acids in your mouth. reduce bacteria: dry mouths are the perfect place for bacteria to thrive, so preventing dry mouth alone reduces bacteria buildup in your oral microbiome. Glycerin is also known to be bacteriostatic, meaning it prevents the growth of bad bacteria in your mouth which could otherwise lead to enamel damage, gum disease, and/or tooth decay. On top of that, its ability to reduce bacteria also helps to provide you with effective vegan teeth whitening. enhance our essential oil flavors: in addition to enhancing your taste, glycerin also enhances the flavors of our mint oils! Did you know that mint oils not only taste amazing and leave behind minty-fresh breath, they actually aid in reducing bacteria in your mouth as well? Research shows that peppermint oil has antibacterial and antiseptic properties, allowing it to fight bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms in your mouth. keep our ingredients from separating: this is important because all of our ingredients are intentional, and each one plays a key role in reducing plaque, whitening your teeth, and freshening your breath. We want them to be evenly distributed throughout your mouth when you brush, and glycerin helps us accomplish this. Who knew a little bit of vegetable oil could go such a long way? Spoiler alert: Eric knew, which is why he was able to craft the best vegan toothpaste out there (with help from numerous industry experts, of course). give vegan toothpaste a go Now that you know vegetable glycerin can achieve all the greatness of animal-derived glycerin, why not give it a go? After all, our specific vegetable glycerin is gentler on the planet, respects animal lives, and supports American jobs while carrying all of its oral care responsibilities. We may be biased, but we think that’s pretty impressive. Why don’t you see for yourself? Find out why so many people are switching to our natural vegan toothpaste. buy now.
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6 Simple Invisalign Care Tips to Get the Best Out of Your Treatment
Do you know about the incredible benefits of choosing Invisalign for overbite treatment? While the good old metal braces are the most well-known orthodontic treatment, Invisalign braces rapidly became popular among teens and adults. Invisalign treats overbite, crossbite, and other misalignments with the help of transparent aligners. These aligners are removable, convenient, and less painful than conventional braces. But it's imperative to take care of Invisalign to get the most out of your treatment. Read on if you are on Invisalign treatment or thinking of doing so! 6 Tips to Get Best Results Out of Your Invisalign Treatment Here are the 6 Invisalign care tips aligned with the recommendation of orthodontists to get desired results from Invisalign braces quickly. 1. Wear for Maximum Time The Invisalign braces are effective when you wear them for at least 22 hours a day. The Invisalign treatment can only function and provide you with your dream smile when it's in your mouth. So you can't afford to forget to wear them again after your meals and at night. The more diligent you are in wearing them, the better and quicker results you will get. 2. Use Whitening Toothpaste While you are on aligners, you can take double advantage by using a whitening toothbrush. The whitening agents in the toothbrush get trapped under the aligners. These agents won't easily get washed away by saliva. Along with resolving your purpose of a perfect smile and bite, aligners also provide bright and white teeth. The only condition is to use whitening toothpaste during your entire treatment duration. 3. Keep Your Teeth & Aligners Clean Cleaning aligners become a mandatory part of your oral hygiene routine on Invisalign braces. Otherwise, the food gets trapped under the aligners and gets converted into cavities and plaque. Instead of getting Invisalign benefits for treating overbite, you may need to deal with a tooth infection or decay. So thoroughly clean your teeth and aligners while brushing and keep them clean always. 4. Follow the Schedule of Aligners Trays Each aligner tray has a specific time limit to wear it. Afterward, your teeth need another size of aligner tray. Therefore orthodontists call you to prescribe it according to the progress of your treatment. Ensure that you don't miss your appointment. The typical range for each tray is of 7-14 days. If you are going out of town, you can take the preceding tray with you to change on the due day. 5. Keep Track of Your Aligners One of the most critical Invisalign care is never losing them and keeping them near you whenever you remove them. Use the storage case provided to you with Invisalign braces. If you don't put your aligners in these cases, they can easily be lost or thrown away. Also, keep your aligner trays away from pets and kids. They are of no use if they become chew toys! 6. Do as Your Orthodontist Say It's essential to follow your orthodontist's instructions when it comes to taking care of Invisalign. They may ask you to visit the clinic more frequently. You may also need to wear elastics. Although elastics are prescribed for a short time in maximum cases, this duration may prolong if you don't follow the instructions. So always follow your orthodontist's recommendations, from wearing elastics to taking proper Invisalign care and maintaining good oral hygiene. In a Nutshell Invisalign is a proven treatment for overbite and other bite issues. However, its effectiveness largely depends upon the patient's discipline. Follow these tips and your orthodontist's instructions regarding taking care of Invisalign to meet with a beautiful smile and perfect bite on the other side of the treatment. Author Bio: Emily Taylor found the perfect fit for herself as the Online Marketing Manager at Thurman Orthodontics in Fresno CA as she believes that a great smile does more than just make a person look great – it makes them feel great as well. The power of a smile has always been a mystery to Emily, and she loves researching and writing about it. She loves to write about everything to do with a healthy bite and a beautiful smile – weather is it ways to achieve it or the importance of it in the various aspects of life. What brings a big smile on Emily’s face is her family and surfing. She also likes to bake, and her children and co-workers call her the cookie fairy!
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earth day exploration: what’s the best zero waste toothpaste?
Well, the toothpaste industry is finally catching on to the need for more sustainable options. All we can say is: it’s about time. But with more zero waste toothpaste options than ever before, it can be hard to choose! These days, you’ve got toothpaste tablets + powdered toothpastes, homemade toothpaste recipes, and then there’s us, a (pretty awesome) natural toothpaste with a recyclable toothpaste tube and sustainable packaging. How do you know which one is right for you and your family? In honor of Earth Day (and to save you the pains of trial and error), we’re analyzing these zero waste toothpaste options, so you can find the perfect fit. toothpaste tablets + powders First up, we’ve got the newly popular toothpaste tablets (bits, bites, chews, and the like) and the not-as-popular toothpaste powders. These options are certainly sustainable, as many companies will send you refills in biodegradable pouches, so you never have to replace your container. We love that aspect, but with these pros come a few undeniable cons. It goes without saying that toothpaste tablets and powders introduce a bit of a learning curve. As many people are transitioning away from conventional toothpastes, this can be tough. We don’t want you feeling discouraged or developing an aversion to zero waste toothpaste simply because tablets and powders are so different from your long-time paste. On top of this, many first-time tablet users report that the taste and consistency of toothpaste bits aren’t that pleasant. Because of their small size and the inability of the ingredients to interact with each other (until your saliva mixes things up), tablets and powders tend to give off a much milder mint taste, leaving your mouth feeling not-so-clean or fresh. Many users also agree that once the tablets and powders begin to foam, the texture is very thick and sticky, making it hard to spit it out. Lastly, it’s important to note that tablets and powders aren’t exactly kid-friendly. Tablets pose a choking hazard, while powders open the door to huge messes and a lot of wasted product. We’d rather your children have a safer, cleaner brushing experience with a natural zero waste toothpaste like Davids. homemade toothpaste Next up, we’ve got homemade toothpaste. There’s no denying that making your own toothpaste can save you money, reduce waste, and give you the power to control what ingredients make the cut. But you know what they say: with great power comes great responsibility. Seriously, formulating a zero waste toothpaste that’s natural, effective, and safe is no easy feat. Trust us, it took our founder four years to perfect our formula. If you’re going to take on the task of making your own sustainable toothpaste, we encourage you to spend ample time researching the safety, efficacy, and source of every single ingredient you put in your homemade toothpaste. After all, this toothpaste will be something that you use every single day for an extended period of time....you’ll want to be extra sure that it’s safe. Let’s apply this advice to the topic of abrasive ingredients. There’s no hiding that we use very intentional abrasive ingredients in the Davids formula: calcium carbonate, hydrated silica, and baking soda. When sourced from high-quality places and used in safe quantities (which is the case for Davids), these abrasive ingredients can help “exfoliate” your teeth, breaking up plaque, dislodging harmful bacteria, polishing surface stains, and cleaning your teeth. At Davids, we know exactly where these ingredients come from, we’re familiar with the processing methods used to mill these ingredients, and we know our suppliers maintain the strictest purity standards for these ingredients. To be specific, we use only the highest quality USA-made abrasives with ultra-fine microscopic particles. This ensures our toothpaste falls within the safe range of Relative Dentin Abrasion (RDA), confirming it’s safe for everyday use and will not damage your enamel over time. If you’re making your own sustainable toothpaste, you’ll want to confirm all of these things too. Here are a few questions to ask yourself. Does your ingredient recipe come from a reputable source (a dental professional)? Does the recipe tell you exactly how much of each ingredient to include and why? Are you sourcing said ingredients from trusted suppliers? What purity standards do your suppliers meet? If using abrasive ingredients, can you confirm your homemade toothpaste falls within a safe RDA? On top of these considerations, you’ll also want to ensure you’re keeping your homemade toothpaste sanitary. Dipping your toothbrush into the toothpaste can contaminate the mixture, even if you’re not sharing it. Also be sure to check if the recipe you create requires refrigeration, as many homemade toothpastes have a shorter shelf life than commercially available toothpastes. Does all of that advice give you a headache? No worries, we’ve got you covered. Like we said, our founder spent four years perfecting our zero waste toothpaste, so you can brush easy knowing you’re in good hands. Davids natural zero waste toothpaste Why choose Davids as your zero waste toothpaste? We use high-quality, sustainably-sourced ingredients. Not to mention, 98% of our ingredients originate in the USA, so our carbon footprint is drastically reduced as a result of not having to import ingredients. You can read more about our ingredient list here. Our formula is well-researched, tested, and loved. Just ask the thousands of people who have already made the switch to Davids! It leaves your mouth with an unmatched invigorating freshness, and our carefully-formulated recipe has proven effective in reducing bacteria and strengthening enamel. Just check out the lab results for Davids sensitive + whitening nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste! They speak for themselves. It’s easy to use, and it protects the health of your teeth (and the planet) in the long run. With our sustainable toothpaste, there’s no learning curve. It’s a gooey paste just like conventional toothpaste, but it’s better for your holistic health....and the health of the planet. After all, Mother Earth would much rather you be spitting clean, natural ingredients down the sink instead of harsh chemicals. Our sustainable toothpaste packaging is gentle on the planet. Unlike the 1 billion plastic toothpaste tubes that end up in landfills every year, our recyclable toothpaste tube is made from aluminum, the most infinitely recyclable material out there. Our cardboard packaging is FSC certified, and you can opt out of receiving a plastic cap to make your Davids package completely plastic-free. It’s great for the entire family. With Davids, you don’t have to worry about choking hazards, nor do you have to think about creating the perfect homemade formula. Our zero waste toothpaste is safe for children of all ages. In fact, our nano-hydroxyapatite formula is most effective when it’s introduced at a young age. In celebration of Earth Day, why not give our sustainable toothpaste a try? It might just prove to be the easiest, most effective zero waste toothpaste option out there. happy earth day! From our small family-owned and operated business, we wish you a Happy Earth Day! As always, we’re honored to provide you with a safe zero waste toothpaste that you can share with your entire family. We’re extremely grateful for your continued support and your unwavering passion to do better for your health....and the health of this incredible planet. buy now.
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answering the common question: “why do my gums bleed when I brush my teeth?”
Have you ever brushed your teeth and noticed blood in the sink? While bleeding gums are not considered normal, they are very common. Up to 60% of people will occasionally experience gum bleeding, so we figured it’s a great topic to discuss. The causes of bleeding gums can range from simply having the wrong toothbrush for your mouth to gum disease....so we’ll start by saying that the most important thing you can do to identify the cause of your bleeding gums is to visit your dentist! what causes bleeding gums when brushing teeth? With that being said, let’s dive into a few common causes for bleeding gums when brushing. brushing habits Your everyday brushing habits play a huge role in the health/inflammation of your gums. Bad oral hygiene: If you’re not taking proper care of your teeth (brushing at least twice daily and flossing at least once daily), plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth. This allows bacteria to grow on your gum line and cause irritation, inflammation, and bleeding. Hard-bristle toothbrush: If you naturally have sensitive gums, you may just be using a toothbrush that’s too hard for your mouth. Don’t worry, we have a guide to help you pick the right brush. Brushing/flossing too hard: Go easy on your mouth! Pressing harder on your floss/brush does not equal a deeper clean. Make sure you focus on diligent flossing that hugs your teeth rather than slicing your gums. And focus on brushing that prioritizes diligence over force, reaching tight spots and persisting for at least two minutes. As many dentists say, “Healthy gums don’t bleed.” mouth conditions While oral hygiene is an essential start, it doesn’t guarantee protection against bacteria buildup and progressive conditions like gum disease. Plaque/tartar buildup: Bacteria can build up on your gum line in the form of plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) over time. On top of brushing frequently and diligently (with a great natural toothpaste like Davids), head to your dentist for a professional deep cleaning. Gingivitis: Gingivitis is considered the early stage of gum disease where your gums become swollen and red, and they can bleed more easily. Your dentist will be able to tell you if your gums have reached the gingivitis stage. Periodontitis: The dreaded later stage of gum disease. This is the part where your gums may separate from your tooth, exposing your bone to damage and potential loss. This is why it’s so important to treat gingivitis in its early stages so it doesn’t progress! Studies suggest that the likelihood of periodontal disease is impacted by genetics, so be sure to look into your family history to see if you’re particularly susceptible to gum disease. lifestyle Oral health extends beyond your oral care routine! From diet and exercise to medication, the health of your gums (and entire oral microbiome) depends on your holistic self-care habits. Pregnancy+hormones: nearly 60-75% of pregnant women will develop gingivitis. Hormonal changes, specifically increased progesterone, can make it easier for bacteria to grow along your gum lines. This can also be an issue for those taking hormonal medications. Medications: In addition to hormonal medications, certain blood pressure medications, immunosuppressants, and some antiviral drugs can increase gum bleeding. If you take any of these medications regularly, call your doctor to see if they may be contributing to your bleeding gums. Diet: As always, diet plays a huge role in the health of your oral microbiome. A deficiency in Vitamins C and K can lead to excess bleeding. Vitamin C and other micronutrients + antioxidants play a huge role in strengthening your immune system, balancing bacteria in your body, and reducing infections that can lead to inflammation and bleeding. Now, let’s dive into some tips to soothe your bleeding gums when brushing teeth. how to stop bleeding gums when brushing teeth There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to taming bleeding gums, but here are a few of our top tips. Visit your dentist! We can’t stress this one enough. Your dentist can identify gingivitis, clean plaque and tartar with tools you don’t have at home, and assess your overall dental health with x-rays, professional knowledge, and more. Prioritize oral hygiene + a nutrient-dense diet: Check out our nutrition guide by Dr. Anu Isaac, DMD. She highlights the importance of water, vitamin D, protein, fibrous fruits and veggies, nuts and seeds, and more. All of these are so important for your oral and overall health! Avoid harsh chemicals: While harsh chemicals tend to kill everything in your mouth, they can also disrupt your oral microbiome and cause irritation and bleeding. Instead, we recommend fighting bad bacteria and inflammation with natural ingredients like those found in Davids (an effective toothpaste for bleeding gums), a simple salt rinse, and/or homemade turmeric paste (¼ teaspoon turmeric powder with ⅛ teaspoon melted coconut oil). If you notice your gums begin bleeding right around the time you get a new toothbrush, consider that a sign to look for another (gentler) brush. why Davids is a great toothpaste for bleeding gums Davids uses premium, natural, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory ingredients to promote optimal oral health and reduce the risk of bleeding gums. Fight bad bacteria: Our naturally-derived xylitol and peppermint oil don’t just taste amazing, they work together to reduce bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms in your mouth....naturally! Break down plaque: our premium, domestic, ultra-fine abrasive ingredients like hydrated silica, calcium carbonate, and baking soda neutralize the plaque forming acids in your mouth, remove surface stains, and whiten & polish your teeth. Reduce inflammation + irritation: by replacing harsh chemical ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) with natural alternatives like sodium cocoyl glutamate (our mild foaming agent derived from coconut material), Davids eliminates ingredients that commonly cause your mouth to “burn” and/or develop sores. And those are just a few reasons we call Davids the best natural toothpaste (and a great toothpaste for bleeding gums)! We hope our toothpaste+tips can help you avoid asking the question, “Why do my gums bleed when I brush my teeth?” once and for all. buy now.
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