Davids blog
big moments for little teeth and how our kids toothpaste can help
From the excitement of seeing that first tooth to the overwhelm of keeping up with their dental and orthodontic health, each little-tooth milestone marks a new chapter in your child’s growth. While these stages can bring challenges, they are also filled with opportunities to build lasting habits and set them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. To help you on the journey, we’re brushing up on some important dental milestones for your little ones and how our lineup of kids toothpaste can help you breeze through some of these big moments. the first tooth: arrival and care Your baby is born with teeth just below the gumline, and they’ll make their first appearance between 6-12 months (on average). This milestone is an exciting sign to take your little one to their first dental appointment! The dentist can inspect the baby's teeth, gums, and jaw to ensure healthy development. They might also recommend care plans, general advice, tips to soothe teething, and answers to your questions about nutrition, pacifier use, and more. It’s typically recommended to brush baby teeth as soon as they appear, so you can ensure bacteria and plaque don’t build up on your baby’s new pearly whites. Gently brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small bit of kids toothpaste for two minutes. Be sure to check out our selection of kids toothpaste, including our strawberry watermelon premium toothpaste, mild mint toothpaste, and orange vanilla kids hydroxyapatite toothpaste. preschool years: building a brushing routine During preschool years, kids start to become more independent with their brushing routine. This is a critical milestone to solidify good oral care habits, including flossing. We recommend introducing our expanding floss into their routine....it's a gentle and sustainable option they can continue to use through adulthood. Not to mention, it’s infused with vegan wax, cocoa butter, and nano-hydroxyapatite particles for a smooth glide and a daily dose of remineralization to nurture healthy enamel in the tightest crevices. We know it’s hard to keep your little ones on top of their oral care routine, so we compiled this list of tips to engage them and spark excitement. One way to keep them excited is to try different fun flavors of kids toothpaste. From orange vanilla to strawberry watermelon, explore which flavor of Davids they like best! losing baby teeth: a rite of passage On average, children start losing baby teeth around age 6. The front teeth and surrounding teeth are typically the first to go, followed by canines and molars in coming years. By age 13, most children will have a full set of permanent teeth. A couple of exciting things happen in the long-stretching milestone of losing baby teeth! Your little ones get introduced to the tooth fairy and their permanent adult teeth for the first time. This is a perfect opportunity to encourage healthy oral care habits. Be sure to remind your kids that the tooth fairy loves sparkling clean teeth and awards accordingly! This can help them hone their brushing and flossing skills, and inspire the tooth fairy to leave special notes telling them how good they’re doing. You never know, the tooth fairy might even award them with a new tube of mild mint toothpaste of kids hydroxyapatite toothpaste! permanent teeth: long-term care Most children will have a full set of permanent teeth between ages 11-13, and this is a very important time to continue proper oral care for kids. We’ve outlined some of our top tips to establish good dental habits early, paving the way for their long-term oral health. brush daily with our kids toothpaste: our mild mint toothpaste, orange vanilla hydroxyapatite toothpaste, and strawberry watermelon toothpaste are all made with thoughtful ingredients for you and your little ones. They’re free of fluoride, sulfates, and artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, and sweeteners. Brushing daily with our kids toothpaste is a great way to nurture a healthy mouth for your littles (and your whole family). floss daily with our expanding floss: this is an essential step, as brushing alone can miss up to 30% of your teeth! With our expanding floss, your little ones can clean those tight crevices between their teeth, fighting bacteria and delivering essential minerals (hydroxyapatite) to surfaces that might otherwise be ignored. start hydroxyapatite at a young age: hydroxyapatite is a superhero for healthy enamel, as it works to remineralize it from the inside out. This can reduce sensitivity, give your teeth a better fighting chance against bacteria, and nurture long-term oral health for your little ones. Using hydroxyapatite from a young age can lay a solid foundation for strong, healthy enamel. embrace mouth-friendly nutrition: diet plays a huge role in oral care for kids (and adults), so be sure to explain (and demonstrate) what a mouth-friendly diet is. It’s a diet full of nutrient-dense whole foods, full of calcium and vitamins to keep your teeth healthy and strong. It avoids sticky, sugary, and starchy substances that can linger on your teeth and cause damage to your enamel. Plus, a mouth-friendly diet includes lots of water! Hydration is key for flushing out bad bacteria and avoiding dry mouth. schedule regular dental appointments: prevention is key in the world of long-term holistic oral care, so be sure to schedule dental appointments every six months. Not only can this help your kids avoid dental complications, it can also reduce the fear and anxiety that so many experience around the dentist. look out for signs of orthodontic issues: some red flags can include overbites, clicking noises while chewing, speech difficulties, crowded teeth, tooth gaps, pain, frequently biting cheeks, and more. Your dentist can also recommend an orthodontic visit if necessary! avoid bad habits: make sure your kids learn sneaky bad habits that can affect their long-term oral health, such as nail biting and teeth grinding. At Davids, we’re passionate about creating products that put the fun back into oral care for kids! Explore our line of premium kids toothpaste, and be sure to grab a tube for yourself too! buy now.
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five common myths about bleeding gums, a red flag you should never ignore
When it comes to your dental health, it can be tempting to brush off pesky symptoms. But we’re here to remind you that gum bleeding is a red flag (pun intended) you should never ignore. While there are so many causes of bleeding gums, they can often indicate another issue, such as gum disease, stress, nutrient deficiency, and beyond. So for the sake of your oral and overall health, let’s dive into some common myths about bleeding gums, debunking the misinformation and empowering you to take charge of your well-being. After all, early action (and prevention) can make a world of a difference for your oral health, and knowledge is one key ingredient for positive action. myth 1: bleeding gums are normal Bleeding gums might be common, but they aren’t normal (especially when persistent). Be sure to take note of the severity and duration of your gum bleeding. If it’s persistent, you should visit your dentist as soon as possible since it could be a sign of gum disease (nearly half of all US adults over 30 experience gum disease). Early treatment is key when it comes to bleeding gums and gum disease. Your dentist can give you a treatment plan that can allow you to reverse gum disease so it doesn’t progress to advanced stages like periodontitis. Along with gum disease, other common causes of gum bleeding include plaque buildup, hormonal changes, medications, rough brushing/flossing, and more. No matter what the cause, know that gum bleeding calls for a dental checkup. myth 2: you only need to see the dentist if your gums are bleeding Prevention is key in the world of dental health. We don’t recommend waiting until you need the dentist to go to the dentist, as this approach can miss important opportunities to prevent more severe issues down the line. As always, we recommend dental cleanings and checkups every six months to detect early signs of gum disease, assess gum bleeding, and look out for any other oral health issues before they escalate. During routine visits, your hygienist can use techniques and tools you don’t have at home to perform deep cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Your dentist can assess your gum health and recommend personalized care routines that prevent gum bleeding, sensitivity, and other complications. We recommend visiting your dentist every six months, especially (and more frequently) if you experience persistent gum bleeding. They can assess whether the bleeding is a sign of gum disease, confront the stage, and outline a treatment plan. If your gums are actively bleeding, don’t hesitate to get them checked, as gum disease is linked to so many other conditions like heart disease, diabetes, dementia, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory diseases. myth 3: you have to brush harder and floss more for bleeding gums It’s a common misconception that brushing and flossing harder can help your bleeding gums. In reality, this can worsen things. Harder brushing does not equal a deeper clean, and it can actually harm your gums, lead to gum recession, and make them more prone to bleeding and gum disease. Instead, we recommend a gentle, thorough approach using a soft bristle toothbrush, effective toothpaste, smooth waxed floss, and proper technique. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and clean each tooth with gentle, circular motions. When flossing, glide the floss gently between your teeth and hug each tooth rather than forcing it down. Be sure to brush twice daily and floss (at least) once daily, avoiding excessive force that can harm your gums. With consistency, this intentional approach can help improve your gum health without the risk of injury, gum bleeding, and discomfort. myth 4: only people with poor oral hygiene have bleeding gums While poor oral hygiene can lead to gum bleeding, it’s not the only cause. You can have the best oral care habits and still experience the occasional bleeding gums, and sometimes that feels even more frustrating! As we mentioned earlier in this article, there are so many causes of gum bleeding that aren’t related to your hygiene habits. rapid hormonal changes: like pregnancy, menopause, puberty, and menstruation certain medications: such as birth control pills, antihypertensive medications, asthma medication, blood thinners, aspirin, chemotherapy, antibiotics, and more stress: which can trigger inflammation throughout your body and weaken your immune system, causing gum bleeding, irritation, and infection vitamin deficiencies, specifically vitamins C and K, which play important roles in tissue repair and blood clotting medical conditions: diabetes and autoimmune disorders can also affect your oral health and cause bleeding gums Remember, you can be doing everything right and still experience gum bleeding. If that’s the case, give yourself some grace and schedule an appointment with your dentist and primary care doctor to investigate and address the root cause as soon as possible. myth 5: gum bleeding and gum disease can’t be reversed The great news is that gum bleeding and the early stages of gum disease can be reversed! That’s why it’s so important to visit your dentist and address the issue immediately. With guidance from your dentist, diligent oral care habits, and some great products, you can work to ease your redness, swelling, and bleeding gums.Whether you have bleeding gums or not, developing a holistic dental care routine is crucial for your oral and overall health. At Davids, we’re proud to offer an expanding line of premium oral care products that nurture your long-term health. From natural toothpaste formulas crafted with xylitol and nano-hydroxyapatite to soft-bristled bamboo toothbrushes to innovative expanding dental floss, explore our premium products and give your bleeding gums (or perfectly healthy gums!) the love they deserve. buy now.
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unwrap the merry and bright benefits of holistic oral health for the holidays
The holiday season is filled with sweet indulgences, packed schedules, and plenty of cheer, but it's also a crucial time to prioritize your oral health. With all the festive treats and travel, keeping up with a holistic oral care routine can make a world of difference for your sparkling smile. Let’s unwrap the benefits of maintaining a healthy mouth during the holidays with help from our travel size toothpaste and sustainable dental gifts, so you (and your loved ones) can enjoy the season to the fullest without sacrificing oral wellness. the importance of oral health during the holidays Amidst all the sweet treats and packed schedules that come with the holidays, it's easy to let your oral health slip through the cracks. So here’s a gentle reminder of why keeping up with your oral care during the holidays is more important than ever. increased indulgence: the festive season is full of festive treats, pumpkin pie, sugar cookies, candy canes, fudge, blondies…the list goes on! While we encourage you to savor these sweet moments with your loved ones, increasing your sugar intake can be tough on your teeth. Bacteria feed on sugar, releasing harmful acids that can erode your enamel, so it’s important to keep up with your oral care routine to brush away the bad guys. Hydroxyapatite toothpaste is known to remineralize damaged enamel, soothing sensitivity that can often come with eating sweets. out of your routine: being out of your routine can make it tempting to throw your healthy habits out the window. Our best advice is to keep as many things normal as possible, like your oral care routine (travel size toothpaste can help), your walking routine, and the healthy foods you eat regularly. stress: even if it’s “good” stress (aka excitement), stress can be hard on your entire body. Increased stress can lead to teeth grinding, dry mouth, dietary changes, and decreased attention surrounding your oral care routine. These things can greatly impact your oral and overall health, so it’s important to keep up with a diligent holistic oral care routine during the holidays. setting an example for family members: this season often means more family time, making it a perfect opportunity to be a star example in the world of oral care. Adopting healthy habits, like brushing daily with hydroxyapatite toothpaste, can rub off on those around you! Having your hydroxyapatite toothpaste or stainless steel tongue scraper on the bathroom counter can spark conversations about these innovative oral care tools. It can open a whole new door for them to explore natural, holistic products! travel: there’s no place like home for the holidays, but it’s no secret that this season often calls for the opposite…travel. Travel can be hard on your body and mouth, so it’s important to stock up on your favorite travel size toothpaste to accompany you through Thanksgiving and the rest of the festive season. As we always say, your mouth is the window to your overall health (gut, brain, and immune system). While everyone is traveling and gathering for the holidays, it’s as important as ever to keep up your oral care habits to nurture your immune system and enjoy this season to the fullest. sustainable shopping tips for holiday dental gifts The holiday season is also the busiest shopping season of the year. With Black Friday and Cyber Monday on the horizon, we invite you to shop sustainable (and small) for your holiday gifts! If you’re looking for dental gifts that can elevate your loved one’s (or your own) oral care routine, we have the perfect lineup. With natural toothpaste for both kids + adults, innovative hydroxyapatite floss, our stainless steel tongue scraper, and our premium bamboo toothbrush, our selection of dental gifts at Davids continues to grow! Note: we know it’s tempting to think that dental gifts are a little “lame,” but we want to remind you that they’re gifts that keep on giving! For example, if you give someone the gift of hydroxyapatite toothpaste and it soothes the tooth sensitivity they’ve been feeling for years (to the point where it rarely ever comes back), that’s a gift to remember! Plus, dental gifts make the perfect stocking stuffers. When you shop small at Davids this holiday season, you can smile bright knowing you’re supporting a family business and buying sustainable products that minimize plastic, avoid animal testing and byproducts, and come packaged in FSC-certified paperboard. When you buy our natural toothpaste online, you can write ***REMOVE TUBE KEY/CAP/BOX*** in line two of your address to make it a true zero waste toothpaste! Plus, our formulas avoid artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, sulfates, and fluoride, so you can gift with confidence. the benefits of crafting your holiday oral health kit with Davids We hope your holiday season is filled with nothing but comfort and joy, which is exactly why we’ve curated an incredible collection of holistic oral care products for a healthy mouth + healthy you. the essential bundle: when you purchase our hydroxyapatite toothpaste, stainless steel tongue scraper, bamboo toothbrush, and expanding floss as a bundle, you save 15%. You’ll also have the tools you need to really hone your holiday oral care routine. Our expanding floss will clean the tight crevices of your teeth, while our bamboo toothbrush and hydroxyapatite toothpaste work together to fight bacteria, polish and whiten your teeth, and soothe sensitivity by remineralizing your enamel from the inside out. Our single-handed tongue scraper then swoops in to reduce bacteria on your tongue’s cushy surface, adding another line of defense against harmful microorganisms. travel size toothpaste: whether you’re looking for stocking stuffers or a sidekick to accompany you on your festive adventures, our travel size toothpaste can help you fight the negative impacts of holiday sweets and help you maintain healthy oral care habits on the road. Our peppermint hydroxyapatite toothpaste, signature peppermint toothpaste, and charcoal toothpaste all come in a travel size, so you can bring your favorites along no matter where the season takes you. Explore our full lineup of holistic oral care products to nurture a smile that shines bright this festive season and beyond. buy now.
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debunking five common myths about oral care for kids
When it comes to oral care for kids, it’s only natural to want to ensure you’re doing everything you can to nurture strong foundations. The habits they establish from a young age can pave the way for their long-term oral and overall health! That’s exactly why we’re debunking five common myths about kids oral care, so you can feel confident providing them with the tools and guidance they need. We’re also exploring the benefits of our kids hydroxyapatite toothpaste, NEW mild mint toothpaste, and hydroxyapatite floss, spotlighting their important roles in the world of oral care for kids. So, for a bright smile and an even brighter future, let’s bust some pesky myths! myth 1: baby teeth don’t require much care Baby teeth fall out. How important can they be, right? The truth is that healthy baby teeth are essential. They lay the foundation for your baby’s permanent teeth…and the foundation for their long-term health. Baby teeth play a central role in speech development, eating, jaw health, making room for adult teeth, and more. Baby teeth can develop cavities if not properly maintained through (1) proper kids oral care and (2) a healthy diet. A 2019 study in the UK found that 23% of children will develop a cavity by the age of five, which can increase their risk of tooth decay once their permanent teeth come in. To take care of those baby teeth, dental professionals recommend bringing your baby to the dentist within six months of their first tooth or by their first birthday…whichever comes first. We also recommend no bottles in bed, clean pacifiers, avoiding sugary drinks (and sugary rewards), limiting sticky snacks, introducing cups around their first birthday, and brushing with kids hydroxyapatite toothpaste to protect their enamel as they grow. myth 2: sugary foods are the only cause of cavities Other common causes of cavities in children include: poor kids oral care habits: like avoiding brushing and flossing. bottles in bed: bottles in bed are never recommended for little ones, especially if they contain sugary substances. teeth grinding: this is usually accompanied by jaw tightness/soreness, headaches, and general discomfort. dried fruit and other sticky snacks: sugar, we see you pop up in subtle places. vitamin D deficiency: severe deficiencies can cause enamel damage, so be sure to get their levels checked if it seems like their tooth issues are coming out of nowhere. acidic substances: foods and drinks like lemons, limes, oranges tomatoes, and more can also wear down enamel. In addition to these causes, a healthy diet is so important to pave the way for strong teeth and holistic health. A mouth-healthy diet focuses on whole nutrient-dense foods rich in fiber, calcium, protein, vitamins, and minerals…limiting processed, sugary, and acidic foods. myth 3: flossing isn’t necessary for kids This one is tempting to believe, especially since it can be so hard to get little ones to floss. But flossing is so important when it comes to oral care for kids, as it fights bacteria and plaque between their little teeth, helping to prevent enamel damage, bad breath, gum disease, and other complications. Not to mention, encouraging them to floss from a young age can solidify this habit into adulthood, which can work wonders for their long-term oral and overall health! Here are some of our top tips to get your little ones excited (or at least not upset) about flossing. floss with them: to demonstrate good habits and create a bonding experience use a gentle waxed floss: like our expanding hydroxyapatite floss, which is infused with vegan wax & cocoa for a smooth, gentle glide play visual games: try making a diorama mouth with playdough or marshmallow teeth, showing them proper flossing techniques using string as floss sing songs and dance with them: flossing is a dance too, so you can play videos or do the dance while you both floss together. PS: brushing twice daily is just as important as flossing! These two kids oral care habits work together to nurture strong enamel and prevent tooth decay and other dental discomforts. myth 4: kid’s dental visits are only for emergencies Preventative care is essential for everyone, especially developing children. As we mentioned in myth 1, you should bring your baby to the dentist for the first time within six months of their first tooth or by 12 months at the latest. After that, it’s important to go back every six months to assess changes and ensure everything progresses as expected. Between ages 2-3, your little one should have all of their baby teeth, and by 4-5, they’ll be able to get their first X-rays to point out any tooth decay or other complications. Each visit is so important because the dentist can make suggestions about your kids oral care to help prevent dental problems down the road, reduce anxieties surrounding dental visits, and assist in developing a positive attitude around oral care. myth 5: fluoride is the only/best option for healthy enamel It’s easy to believe this myth, as the American Dental Association (ADA) will only place its seal of approval on fluoride toothpaste. However, science reveals that fluoride is not the only ingredient that can effectively remineralize and strengthen the enamel. Our favorite remineralizing hero ingredient, nano-hydroxyapatite, has shown promising results (especially for children) in recent studies. This 2018 study recommends hydroxyapatite as an effective remineralizing ingredient for children, especially since it’s non-toxic (and kids are more likely to swallow their toothpaste accidentally). This 2020 study confirms that hydroxyapatite oral care products effectively nourish and strengthen children’s enamel. This 2021 clinical trial concludes hydroxyapatite toothpaste is not inferior to fluoride when it comes to reducing enamel damage. It also confirms that it’s safer to swallow than fluoride. Our own third-party lab testing (conducted with adults) revealed that our hydroxyapatite outperformed other leading sensitivity toothpastes. It effectively repaired and remineralized weakened enamel to soothe sensitive teeth within days. Check out the results for yourself! optimizing kids oral care with Davids Now with our orange vanilla hydroxyapatite toothpaste, strawberry watermelon classic toothpaste, and mild mint toothpaste, we have the perfect kids oral care lineup at Davids. Your little ones can also get used to flossing with our innovative expanding dental floss, infused with remineralizing hydroxyapatite for strong enamel and vegan wax + cocoa butter for a smooth, gentle flossing experience. buy now.
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heroes behind the smile: honoring hygienists and routines for dental hygiene month
October is National Dental Hygiene Month, a smile-worthy month created by the American Dental Hygienists Association (ADHA) in 2009. It’s dedicated to celebrating all the incredible hard work dental hygienists do, while highlighting the importance of good oral hygiene and oral health access for all. As a brand built around dental hygiene, holistic oral health, and community, we’re so excited to celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month at Davids! There are over 214,000 dental hygienists in the United States alone, and lucky for us, that number is expected to grow in the coming years. In honor of everything they do for us and our oral + overall health, let’s dive into the incredible importance of dental hygiene. why is dental hygiene important? You’ve probably heard us talk about the importance of dental hygiene and how its benefits extend far beyond the mouth, but let’s brush up on a few key points. Dental hygiene plays a crucial role in… prevention: this is one of the most important aspects of oral care! A solid, holistic oral hygiene routine can prevent bad breath, gum disease, dental complications, and so much more. Prevention is the best approach because it can save you pain, cost, and complications in the long run. Don’t worry, we’ll cover our favorite oral hygiene routine at the end of this article. Pair that with routine dental visits, and you’ve got an amazing recipe for long-term oral health. overall health: poor oral hygiene can lead to more than just oral complications. It’s linked to health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, metabolic disorders, gut dysbiosis, stroke, respiratory problems, and more. essential functions: dental hygiene has the power to impact your comfort level when eating, drinking, and talking. If you’ve ever had a sensitive tooth, you know exactly what we mean! From sensitivity to bleeding gums, your oral hygiene routine can prevent discomfort and support essential daily functions (like chewing and swallowing) that so many of us take for granted. emotional well-being: our smile plays a huge role in our emotional health, self-confidence, and ability to socialize. On top of this, oral health issues can affect your gut health which can alter your hormones and brain chemistry. This can directly impact your mental health! Now that we’ve covered why hygiene is so important, let’s explore (and celebrate) the essential role of a dental hygienist! what do dental hygienists do? It’s common to experience some anxiety when visiting a dentist or dental hygienist. Their sharp tools can feel a bit intimidating, but we’re here to assure you that their work is so important! In honor of National Dental Hygiene Month, let’s dive into what dental hygienists do, and how it benefits you! review your health history: this can include gum health, previous fillings, oral care complications, and health history outside the mouth. For example, if you have a history of cardiovascular issues in your family, your hygienist and dentist might flag it and discuss it with you. As we mentioned, gum disease correlates with heart disease. deep clean your teeth: when plaque (bacteria-filled goo) hardens into tartar, it must be removed by a dental hygienist. They use special tools to safely scrape away tartar buildup without damaging your teeth or gums. They are extremely skilled at cleaning those hard-to-reach places of your mouth, such as your molars, the backs of your teeth, between your teeth, and the spots where your teeth meet your gum line. take dental X-rays: these images can reveal tooth decay, bone damage, cysts, tumors, and more! Your dental hygienist will take x-rays as needed based on your history, and your dentist will analyze them to recommend any treatment plans. offer recommendations: with help from the dentist, your hygienist can recommend products, tips, and tricks to elevate your oral hygiene routine. educate: hygienists who are passionate about holistic oral care can educate you on the role your mouth plays in your overall health. As mentioned above, so many diseases and complications start in the mouth, and signs like inflammation, gum disease, recurring enamel damage, and more can all reveal something about the bigger picture. Even (or especially) if it’s been a while since your last dental cleaning, take this as a sign to schedule one! It might feel intimidating, but your dental hygienist wants the best for you and your oral health. our favorite oral hygiene routine Celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month by upgrading your oral hygiene routine with our premium products for a healthy mouth + healthy you. brush twice daily with Davids: we have an incredible lineup of natural toothpaste, including mint hydroxyapatite toothpaste, orange vanilla hydroxyapatite toothpaste, strawberry watermelon toothpaste, and citrus peppermint. No matter what your flavor preference, we have a formula for you (and your little ones)! If you experience sensitivity, we highly recommend one of our hydroxyapatite formulas, as the nanoparticles work to remineralize weakened areas of the enamel for long-term comfort and health. Oh, and we recommend using our bamboo toothbrush for the sake of your teeth and the planet, and be sure to replace it (at least) every three months! floss daily with our hydroxyapatite floss: our expanding floss contains hydroxyapatite and xylitol to deliver essential minerals, remove plaque, and dislodge debris in the tight crevices of your mouth. Flossing is essential for oral hygiene, so don’t gloss over the floss! tongue scrape daily with our stainless steel tongue scraper: what better way to fight the countless bacteria that thrive on the cushy surface of your tongue? If you’re not tongue scraping, you could miss out on the cleanest clean you’ve ever felt! add a hydroxyapatite mouthwash: if you want to further elevate your oral hygiene routine, add a mineral mouthwash to nurture your enamel. Make sure it’s alcohol and peroxide-free for a gentle, effective clean. Do these things consistently, and your dental hygienist will thank you. On that note, in honor of National Dental Hygiene Month, we invite you to schedule a cleaning and checkup appointment with your dentist and stock up on your favorite Davids products! buy now.
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refreshing relief: five sensitivities that call for mild mint toothpaste
At Davids, we believe oral care should truly feel good and refreshing, not overwhelming. That’s why we’ve crafted a lineup of gentle yet effective toothpastes, from our NEWEST mild mint toothpaste to our fun fruity flavors like strawberry watermelon and orange vanilla. So whether you feel like regular toothpaste is too minty or you struggle with oral conditions, our mild toothpaste options might be exactly what you’ve been seeking. Now, to celebrate the launch of mild mint and to remind you that you’re never alone in your oral care complications, we’re diving into five mouth sensitivities that might require a gentle toothpaste option. From supertasting to burning mouth syndrome, these sensitivities might surprise you! 1: heightened taste sensitivity aka supertasting Did you know that there are some “supertasters” out there? They have more taste buds than the average human (up to 45 more per 6mm section of the tongue). This enhanced sense of taste can be fun, but it can also be very overwhelming, especially when it comes to strong flavors. Particularly sour, bitter, salty, sweet, umami, and minty flavors can be too much, causing these supertasters to turn away from broccoli, spinach, coffee, and even minty foods/toothpaste. To a supertaster, our mild mint toothpaste might taste like our classic mint flavors to “average” tasters. It could be the perfect gentle toothpaste to deliver a minty fresh feeling without the bite! P.S. If you’re a supertaster and you hate vegetables because of it, be sure to get your daily dose of vitamins, nutrients, and fiber in other ways to help you avoid oral and overall health problems down the line! 2: gum sensitivity You might be dealing with gum sensitivity if you regularly experience pain, swelling, redness, bleeding gums, and/or bad breath. This sensitivity differs from tooth sensitivity as it occurs specifically in your gums and not on your tooth, so be sure to note exactly where the sensitivity originates. Gum sensitivity can have many different causes, including gingivitis, vitamin deficiencies, rough brushing/flossing, stress, hormone changes (like pregnancy), oral infections, diabetes, smoking, drinking, and more. If you’re experiencing gum sensitivity, we strongly recommend visiting your dentist to see if it’s developed into gingivitis. We also recommend cleaning up your oral hygiene routine, and a great way to do that is with our mild mint toothpaste. When dealing with gum sensitivity, you’ll want fresh, effective toothpaste that doesn’t burn, and our mild mint is the perfect candidate. This gentle toothpaste gives a fresh minty clean without delivering a strong mint profile that could add to the pain. 3: oral ulcers aka canker sores The causes of canker sores overlap a lot with gum sensitivity….hormonal changes, vitamin deficiencies, smoking, and medications. They’re very common, so they’re not cause for immediate concern unless they reappear. They’ll typically clear up within two weeks, but if they don’t (or they keep coming back), it could be a sign of a larger systemic problem such as autoimmune disease, HIV, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, oral cancer, and beyond. If you’ve ever had one, you know how uncomfortable canker sores can be. When your mouth feels vulnerable and uncomfortable like this, it’s important to avoid overwhelming it with strong flavors. That’s where mild mint toothpaste comes in, providing a fresh clean without an intense flavor bite. When you have a canker sore, it’s important to be easy on your oral microbiome, using a soft bristle toothbrush (like our premium bamboo toothbrush) and our NEW gentle toothpaste. 4: burning mouth syndrome Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a painful, uncommon condition affecting an estimated 2-18% of the population, mostly people over 59. It causes you to feel tingling, burning, or scalding sensations in your mouth, occurring in areas such as your tongue, lips, inner cheeks, gums, and the roof of your mouth. Along with painful burning sensations, BMS can cause dry mouth, altered taste buds, extreme thirst, and metallic tastes. While doctors don’t know the direct cause(s) of BMS, they suspect it’s associated with dental work, medication, vitamin deficiencies, stress, TMJ problems, hormonal changes, and reactions to oral care products. There’s no easy cure for BMS, but you can manage it with things such as pain medication, mouth rinses, hormone replacement, stress management, etc. If you’re experiencing BMS, it can be hard to keep up with an effective, holistic oral care routine. But diligent oral care is so important as you age! Our mild toothpaste can help you stay on track, as its gentle flavor and effective ingredient profile work to keep your mouth fresh and clean without the intensity of conventional mint toothpaste. 5: acid reflux Did you know that strong mint flavoring can trigger acid reflux? Mint oils can relax the muscles between your mouth and your stomach. We love a bit of relaxation, but these muscles are important because they keep your stomach acids from flowing back upstream. When they get too relaxed, those acids can reach your esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn, acid reflux, stomach aches, difficulty swallowing, and sore throat. Acid reflux is one of the most common GI disorders in the world, affecting an estimated 80 million people in the US alone. If you’re one of those people, and you notice your minty toothpaste triggers your acid reflux, try switching to our mild mint toothpaste or one of our fun, fruity toothpastes. While it can be easy to avoid triggering acidic foods and drinks like tomatoes, coffee, and citrus, we know it can be harder to find a gentle toothpaste that fits your needs. That’s why we’re so proud to offer delicious, effective alternatives to classic mint toothpaste. it’s (mild) mint to be If you experience any of the conditions above (or you simply don’t like strong mint flavor!) be sure to try out our mild mint toothpaste, strawberry watermelon toothpaste, or orange vanilla hydroxyapatite toothpaste. These flavors are gentle, effective, and fit for the whole family, allowing you to keep up with a premium holistic oral care routine for a healthy mouth + healthy you. buy now.
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sweet tooth spooks: unwrapping sugar truths and the evolution of a cavity
It’s October, which means we’re approaching one of the biggest sugar holidays of the year: Halloween. In honor of the candy craze that comes with this spooky holiday, let’s brush up on the age-old question “Does sugar cause cavities?” We’ll also dive into the evolution of a cavity and what you and your little ones can do to prevent them! does sugar cause cavities? Sugar (by itself) does not cause cavities, but it sure plays a huge role in cavity development. The not-so-sweet side of sugar is that bacteria love it as much as we do! Sugar feeds the bad bacteria in your mouth. The bacteria “eat” this sugar by releasing damaging acids that can erode your enamel, alter your mouth’s pH, and cause all kinds of problems for your oral microbiome. In the news, you might find claims of Americans buying 600 million pounds of candy on this spooky holiday. Not to mention, a lot of this candy is chewy, sticky, and hard…the perfect setup to keep sugar lingering on your (and your little one’s) teeth for a long time. As we mentioned, sugar (especially sugar that lingers around on your teeth) can lead to cavities and other oral problems. These problems can become especially damaging for all the little trick-or-treaters whose teeth are still developing. To paint a picture of how cavities can progress (and give you the tools to stop them in their tracks), let’s dive into the evolution of a cavity. stage 1: enamel demineralization You’ve probably heard us talk about enamel demineralization before. This occurs when bacteria, plaque, and tartar sit on your teeth for too long, releasing acids that can wear down your enamel. Enamel demineralization can cause uncomfortable sensitivity to hot/cold foods, beverages, and even air (when you flash your teeth and suck in air). The good news is that at this point of the “cavity evolution” process, you can still reverse the damage! It’s so important to listen to the signs and symptoms of enamel demineralization and use proper oral care techniques to stop it in its tracks, remineralize your enamel, and soothe your sensitivity. The best way to do this is with hydroxyapatite toothpaste! Our third-party lab testing showed that daily brushing with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste remineralizes enamel more effectively than other leading sensitive toothpastes. Our customers have also reported that their sensitivity improved in just a few days of brushing with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste. In light of Halloween, grab a tube for you and your little ones…they’ll love our orange vanilla flavor! stage 2: incipient cavity If left untreated, enamel demineralization turns into an incipient cavity. While sometimes hard to identify, an incipient cavity might reveal itself with white spots where plaque has built up (mostly near your gum line or in the grooves of your molars). An incipient cavity is typically still contained in your enamel, so it hasn’t reached the layers underneath. If left untreated, an incipient cavity can develop into a “hole” that exposes those layers underneath, causing uncomfortable sensitivity and prompting the need for a filling. If it hasn’t reached this point, an incipient cavity can be treated with topicals (you know we prefer hydroxyapatite over fluoride treatment). Your dentist can tell you if your incipient cavity is still treatable via topical products, or if it requires a filling. stage 3: small tooth cavity Once the incipient cavity has turned into a small tooth cavity, there’s no going back. The cavity has penetrated your enamel enough to cause lasting damage, and although it’s small right now, it’ll continue to spread. A small tooth cavity will show up on an X-ray, and it’s important to stop it with a filling before it turns into a medium or large tooth cavity. stage 4: medium and large tooth cavity A cavity can jump from small to large pretty quickly, which is why 6-month dental check-ups are so important! While your dentist can usually fix a medium cavity with a larger filling, a large tooth cavity might be too large for a filling. This is because you must have enough strong, healthy enamel to keep the filling in its place…otherwise, it might crack or break while you chew. For a large tooth cavity, you might require a crown, which covers the entire tooth to prevent further cavity damage and allow you to chew normally. However, a large tooth cavity can progress into nerve damage if left untreated. If it reaches your tooth’s center nerve tissues, it will jeopardize the life of your tooth, and fillings/crowns are no longer an option. This is where root canals come in (or full tooth extractions if the damage has progressed too far). A root canal involves removing the nerve and blocking off any pathways for bacteria to travel into your bone. Spooky, right? Don’t worry, we’ve got tips to help you fight these frights. strengthen your enamel to fight these frights Here are some of our favorite ways to keep the Halloween treats from haunting your teeth! don’t let sugar hang around: enjoy your sweets in short bursts, and be sure to rinse or brush your teeth after indulging (especially if it’s a lollipop or particularly chewy candy). This will keep the sugar, bacteria, and damaging acids from lingering on your pearly whites for too long. floss daily with our hydroxyapatite floss: this can help you avoid and reverse enamel demineralization in those hard-to-reach crevices between your teeth. Our expanding floss is infused with hydroxyapatite particles to deliver minerals to those damaged areas. brush daily with our bamboo toothbrush and hydroxyapatite toothpaste: the nanoparticles in our hydroxyapatite toothpaste will deliver essential minerals to your enamel to help stop enamel demineralization in its tracks. In the process, it can provide much-needed tooth sensitivity relief, so you can sport a healthy smile that feels as good as it looks. On top of that, our bamboo toothbrush is a great sustainable alternative to the conventional plastic toothbrush. The handle is compostable and biodegradable, so you can feel good about not contributing to the 1+ billion plastic toothbrushes (and countless candy wrappers) that make their way into landfills every year. Our orange vanilla hydroxyapatite toothpaste is perfect for you and your little ones this Halloween! It’s sweet, it’s orange, and it’s ready to fight demineralization at the source. buy now.
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threads of relief: how hydroxyapatite floss can soothe your sensitivity
When dealing with sensitivity, it’s tempting to skip flossing (and brushing) those tender areas. It might seem counterintuitive to “rub” those super-sensitive teeth with your floss and toothbrush, but skipping over those parts can drastically worsen your sensitivity. If you maintain proper brushing habits but still experience a lot of sensitivity, it might be because you’re skipping flossing. Did you know brushing alone leaves about one-third of your tooth’s surface untouched? This allows bacteria to fester, plaque to build up, and sensitivity to take over in those tight crevices between your teeth. Don’t worry though, regular flossing with hydroxyapatite floss can soothe that pesky sensitivity. Let’s explore how! how flossing can soothe sensitivity Daily use of hydroxyapatite floss helps to remove plaque from your teeth, keeping your gums healthy and your sensitivity at bay. If you leave the plaque to linger, it can form into tartar: a hardened version of dental plaque that can lead to gum disease, enamel erosion, and severe sensitivity. Once tartar forms, it can only be removed by dental hygienists using a scalar (that hard metal hook tool used to scrape your teeth at the dentist). When you make a habit of hydroxyapatite floss, you can break down plaque, prevent tartar buildup, and deliver a much-needed dose of minerals to those hard-to-reach parts of your enamel. The nanoparticles in the hydroxyapatite floss bind to your tooth, strengthening your enamel from the inside out to prevent damage and relieve sensitivity at the source. So next time you feel stubborn sensitivity, don’t toss the hydroxyapatite floss. one tooth hurts when I floss If one tooth hurts when you floss, there could be many explanations. We’ve outlined a few common ones below. improper technique: rough flossing (and brushing) can cause sensitivity instead of soothing it. Has your sensitivity only appeared after you added flossing into your routine? This could indicate improper technique (don’t worry, we’ll cover our favorite technique tips in the last section). irreversible sensitivity: sometimes sensitivity is “too far gone” for at-home brushing and flossing. For example, you might need a dental professional to remove tartar buildup. Maybe your gum has receded so far (from gum disease) that your tooth’s nerve passageways are exposed around the gumline. Maybe you’re just genetically predisposed to stubborn sensitivity. These things could require dental work to stop the pain. tooth decay: flossing that tooth can cause intense pain if tooth decay is already present. Tooth decay tends to start in those tight crevices between your teeth, so pain after flossing a certain tooth can unveil tooth decay you didn’t previously notice. If tooth decay is the problem, your dentist can give you a deep cleaning and a treatment plan. dental work: if one tooth hurts when you floss, be sure to ask yourself if you’ve had any dental work (recent or past) in that area. Pain in one spot could indicate a loose crown or a cracked filling. This is not a comprehensive list. If you have one (or more) sensitive spot that won’t go away no matter how much you brush and floss with hydroxyapatite, reach out to your dentist. lingering pain after flossing If you have lingering pain after flossing, many of the causes above also apply. However, the difference here is that the lingering pain exists throughout your entire mouth instead of in one spot. If that’s the case, you could be dealing with gum disease. When the pain lingers for days, try to notice any other symptoms. Are your gums bleeding after you floss (even though you’ve been flossing for a while? Do your gums appear red and inflamed? Do your gums appear “detached” from your tooth, leaving pockets where bacteria can build up? No matter what, lingering pain after flossing (especially if it lasts over a week) is enough cause to visit your dentist. how to relieve gum pain from flossing If you’re new to flossing, it’s common to experience gum discomfort and intermittent bleeding. To soothe these symptoms, here are a few at-home remedies. warm saltwater rinse: rinsing with saltwater can reduce plaque buildup, swelling, and inflammation. It can also increase your mouth’s pH, making it harder for bacteria to thrive. hot or cold compress: place a heating pad or an ice pack on the outside of your cheek to soothe the pain and reduce inflammation. smooth waxed floss: our hydroxyapatite floss is coated with vegan wax and cocoa butter for a gentle glide. This should help you avoid “jamming” the floss into your teeth and placing too much pressure on your gums. However, if the pain persists (especially if accompanied by swelling and a fever), visit your dentist. They can tell you if the pain results from gum disease, an infection, or another oral condition. our top tips for the best flossing experience For a soothing flossing experience, we’ve outlined the importance of the product you’re using… and how to floss properly. use our hydroxyapatite floss: as mentioned, this is crucial for delivering essential minerals to those tight crevices between your teeth. Our floss utilizes an innovative design to expand while you use it and cover more surface area of your tooth. pair it with hydroxyapatite toothpaste: hydroxyapatite toothpaste can be a game-changer for sensitivity. If you experience one or more sensitive spots throughout your day (especially when you brush or floss), add our hydroxyapatite toothpaste to your routine. You might just notice some relief within a few days of consistent brushing! follow a proper flossing technique: like grabbing 12 inches of floss and forming a U-shape around each tooth to scrub the surface. In this previous article, we outline how to floss the right way. This can help you avoid unnecessary gum pain and bleeding. Remember, floss plays an important role in your oral and overall health, working to fight plaque, gum disease, and sensitivity in the tightest parts of your mouth. Don’t gloss over the importance of floss! buy now.
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bite back: 10 natural remedies for your sensitive teeth
If you’re experiencing sensitivity, we fully understand the need for quick and effective solutions. From green tea to hydroxyapatite toothpaste, we’ve compiled a list of 10 simple natural remedies for sensitive teeth, so you can nip that “bite” in the bud as soon as possible. 10: saltwater rinse Saltwater has been a staple natural remedy since at least 1600 B.C. when ancient Greeks and Egyptians recorded salt-based treatments. Saltwater is known for its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing plaque buildup, soothing pain and swelling (in the mouth and throat), and relieving tooth pain. It can do this by increasing your mouth's pH, making it less acidic and harder for bacteria and harmful pathogens to survive. Simply mix warm water with salt, swish it, and gargle it as you would with mouthwash, and you have a simple and affordable natural remedy for sensitive teeth. 9: green tea Like saltwater, green tea can act as a natural mouthwash, reducing bacteria to relieve sensitivity and inflammation. Green tea is known for its antioxidants (catechins), which have incredible bacteria-killing properties and nurture a less-acidic oral microbiome. This isn’t quite the case for green tea’s morning drink competitor: coffee! Coffee is quite acidic, which can lead to dry mouth, bad breath, enamel erosion, and more. On top of being a natural remedy for sensitive teeth, green tea serves many other amazing purposes. It’s said to improve brain function, bolster the immune system, aid in weight loss, reduce inflammation throughout the body, improve liver function (and overall body detoxification), protect good cholesterol, and more. 8: turmeric Turmeric has famous anti-inflammatory properties. It can help ease the symptoms of various oral care issues, including sensitivity, gingivitis, and overall discomfort. It can work to reduce plaque, soothe redness and swelling, and even whiten teeth. Many people don’t realize that tooth sensitivity is not only a result of enamel erosion, it’s also caused by gum disease and separation. When your gums recede from your teeth or become inflamed, it can expose the tubules that lead to your tooth’s center nerve. Substances like turmeric can help with these gum-related issues and act as an effective sensitive teeth home remedy. 7: peppermint oil You can think of peppermint oil as a natural numbing agent. Instead of using synthetic drugs to numb your sensitivity, peppermint oil can deliver a gentle soothing effect. Research has revealed that, in the process, peppermint oil also has the power to kill bacteria and fight oral pathogens that might otherwise damage your gums, tissue, and enamel (worsening your sensitivity). Whether it’s chewing gum, a homemade rinse, or one of our natural toothpastes (formulated with premium peppermint oil), peppermint oil is a simple, effective, and accessible sensitive teeth home remedy. 6: clove oil Like peppermint oil, clove oil is amazing for temporary sensitivity (and oral pain) relief. Clove oil contains eugenol (also found in turmeric), which has natural antibacterial and numbing properties that can relieve pain, reduce inflammation, freshen breath, and break down plaque and bacteria. Clove oil also has antifungal properties to help prevent gum disease, cavities, and topical skin issues. Clove oil has been used in dentistry and as a natural remedy for sensitive teeth since the 1800s! 5: oil pulling with coconut oil Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice where you swish coconut oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes (it can take some practice to get up to that timeframe). In Ayurveda, this practice is used to heal cells, tissues, and organs throughout the body by eliminating toxins and promoting a healthy flora distribution in your oral microbiome and gut microbiome. By stimulating saliva production, reducing bad bacteria, and eliminating toxins, consistent oil pulling can help to provide tooth sensitivity relief and promote holistic oral health. Fun fact: our nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste formulas contain coconut oil (more on that in option number 1 below). 4: custom night guards Do you wake up with sensitivity you didn’t have when you went to bed? This could indicate that your sensitivity is caused by teeth grinding (bruxism) while you sleep. Some common causes of nighttime bruxism include anxiety, stress, sleep apnea, use of certain medications (like SSRIs), TMJ, jaw misalignment, consuming too much caffeine, smoking, and drinking. While night guards aren’t a “root cause” solution to teeth grinding, they can provide short-term tooth sensitivity relief. We recommend asking your dentist about a custom night guard (you want it to fit your unique teeth) and exploring the root cause of your teeth grinding. 3: if you’re whitening, switch to hydroxyapatite and PAP Teeth whitening with hydrogen peroxide is a quick way to experience uncomfortable sensitivity. Conventional products like whitening toothpastes, gels, strips, mouthwashes, and more can contain high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. They’re effective at whitening but can also release harmful free radicals that can damage your enamel, gums, and tissues. The good news is that you can whiten without the pain using PAP+ whitening products. They’re formulated with hydroxyapatite and PAP, a gentler alternative to hydrogen peroxide that does not release free radicals. As the PAP works to lift stains and brighten your smile, the hydroxyapatite particles repair weakened, damaged enamel to reveal a stronger and whiter smile and act as a natural remedy for sensitive teeth. 2: a soft-bristle bamboo toothbrush Medium and hard-bristle toothbrushes can be harsh on your enamel, causing sensitivity after multiple uses. If you’ve noticed sensitivity after using one, we recommend switching to a soft-bristle toothbrush. Our bamboo toothbrush is crafted with soft, BPA-free bristles derived from plant (castor) oil. Many conventional toothbrushes use bristles derived from petroleum oil, which we don’t recommend for you or the planet. For a gentle brushing experience (and a simple sensitive teeth home remedy), grab a single or 3-pack of our soft bamboo toothbrush. The 100% bamboo handle is compostable, so you can avoid contributing to the 1 billion toothbrushes that enter landfills annually in the US. 1: Davids hydroxyapatite toothpaste and floss You can think of nano-hydroxyapatite as your sensitivity superhero. It already exists in your enamel, so when you floss and brush with our hydroxyapatite products, the nanoparticles know exactly how to remineralize your enamel and reduce sensitivity. We now offer a hydroxyapatite-infused floss to help remineralize the tightest spots between your teeth. We also have two delicious flavors of hydroxyapatite toothpaste that appeal to every palate. If you’re a mint lover, try our original sensitive + whitening nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste in our classic mint flavor. If you hate the “bite” of mint and prefer a fun fruity flavor, try our mouthwatering orange vanilla nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste for kids + adults! Whichever flavor you choose, consider it your go-to natural remedy for sensitive teeth. buy now.
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