Davids dental care blog

spotlight on sweeteners: why xylitol toothpaste takes the cake

There’s no denying that sweeteners are a huge part of the oral care world. Alongside mint and other essential oils, these sweet ingredients are the reason oral care products taste so great! Let’s face it, if these products didn’t taste great, we probably wouldn’t love to use them every day. As a company that sells xylitol toothpaste, you’re probably not surprised to find out that our favorite formulas include xylitol, a nature-derived sweetener that only hit the oral care market ~50 years ago. But with so many options (nature-derived and not) on the market, we’re diving into some common sweeteners found in your oral care products. To start, let’s embark on a little journey through history. the history of non-sugar sweeteners in toothpaste Thousands of years ago, people all over the world were creating their own versions of toothpaste. These innovative, nature-derived (there was no other option) toothpaste formulas would typically contain ingredients like charcoal, salt, pumice powder, and ground eggshells. It’s only natural that our ancestors experimented with different sweeteners and flavor enhancers to mask the taste of these not-so-yummy ingredients! As time went on, some of the most common sweet ingredients were honey and cane sugar....until more recent decades when experts realized these two were linked to tooth decay (and many other ailments at that). So for the past ~150 years or so, scientists have been searching for safe, low-cost, highly-effective alternatives to sugar in food and toothpaste. That leads us to the first widely-used commercial sweetener, saccharin, which was accidentally discovered by scientist Constantin Fahlberg at Johns Hopkins University in 1879. When experimenting with coal tar, Fahlberg noticed an unexpected substance that was much sweeter than sugar. Not long after its discovery, saccharin became a very controversial ingredient, as food scientists began to suspect it might be linked to various diseases. Since then, the race to find a safe, healthy, and delicious sweetener for food and oral care products has only ramped up. With a few popular ingredients dominating the oral care market, we’ve decided to compare them to see which one comes out on top. (Spoiler alert: you can probably tell from our ingredient lists, xylitol toothpaste wins it all in our book.) comparing common sweeteners We’ve compiled a few of the most common oral care sweeteners, diving into their benefits and risks to show you why we prefer to see (and put) xylitol in toothpaste. sodium saccharin This is simply the salt form of saccharin, and it’s one of the most common sweeteners found in conventional toothpaste formulas. As mentioned above in our history section, saccharin was discovered in a lab, so it’s considered an artificial sweetener (not derived from nature). While sodium saccharin is much sweeter than sugar (without the harmful tooth-decay effects), it presents a few concerns. Studies show that saccharin can disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria in your gut, nurturing the bad bacteria species that are more efficient at harvesting energy. This can lead to an increased risk of metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, obesity, and beyond. These disorders are also known to snowball other health complications downstream. It’s also worth noting that, previous to the year 2000, saccharin was on the FDA’s potential carcinogen list. Can you already tell we don’t believe conventional toothpaste can measure up to xylitol toothpaste? sucralose Sucralose is another common artificial sweetener found in toothpaste and other oral products. Very similar to saccharin, studies have shown that sucralose can alter the balance in your gut microbiome, destroying the good bacteria. It’s also suspected to increase inflammation throughout your body, which we definitely don’t want, and you won’t find our xylitol toothpaste having that effect. sorbitol Unlike the previous two, sorbitol is considered a natural sweetener derived from sources like corn, potato starch, apples, pears, berries, and more. It was first discovered in 1872 in mountain ash berries, and today it’s found in so many oral care products and sugar-free foods. Sorbitol might seem very similar to xylitol, but there are a few key differences we’ll discuss next. xylitol Another natural sweetener, xylitol is often derived from corn, sugar, berries, berries, oats, mushrooms, and other fruits and veggies. At Davids, we source our xylitol from birch trees, which is the best option for the planet since birch trees are abundant and relatively fast-growing. While xylitol and sorbitol appear very similar, there are a couple of distinct differences. Studies show that sorbitol can be broken down by cariogenic bacteria (aka bacteria that cause tooth decay), while xylitol cannot be. In other words, sorbitol can potentially “feed” bad bacteria, while xylitol starves bad bacteria. In fact… A 2012 study found that xylitol can reduce levels of certain bad bacteria species by 27-75% without disrupting levels of beneficial bacteria. 10 years later, another study confirmed that xylitol chewing gum can reduce the amount of bad bacteria and plaque in your mouth by 20%. Many studies attribute these characteristics to the fact that xylitol can increase your saliva flow to prevent dry mouth, flush out bad bacteria, and maintain a healthy pH in your mouth (which can also greatly benefit your gut). As you can see, the benefits of xylitol in toothpaste extend beyond your mouth, promoting your holistic health. This is why we cherish it as the star sweetener in our premium toothpaste! why you should choose our xylitol toothpaste All of our intentional ingredients work together to nourish your mouth (and beyond). Our toothpaste isn’t just a xylitol toothpaste, it’s a team of ingredients designed to nurture your overall health and elevate your oral care routine. Here’s a prime example of what we mean. Our sensitive+whitening toothpaste is formulated with both xylitol and hydroxyapatite...a remineralizing dream team for your teeth. As the xylitol stimulates saliva production and starves the bad bacteria in your mouth (which often lead to sensitivity and tooth decay), hydroxyapatite swoops in to repair damage in your enamel. Together, these two work to soothe sensitivity and strengthen your teeth. There you have it, a unique xylitol toothpaste that truly cares for your oral and overall health. buy your premium toothpaste now

copper vs stainless steel tongue scraper? answering your niche tongue scraping questions

Tongue scraping may seem like a straightforward ritual, but we’ve seen firsthand how the tongue scraping industry can generate some confusion and overwhelm… Copper vs stainless steel tongue scraper? Arched design or single-handed? How hard should you press down? How do you know if you’re doing it right? We’re doing more than just scratching (or should we say scraping?) the surface of tongue scraping. We’re diving into the nitty gritty, answering your specific questions about this ancient practice and sharing our favorite tips. Spoiler alert: many of them involve our stainless steel tongue scraper. brushing up on the benefits of tongue scraping Tongue scraping has been around for thousands of years, thriving as a cornerstone of dental Ayurveda and also appearing in Arabic, African, Chinese, South American, and European cultures throughout history. Originating thousands of years ago in India, Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to health, wellness, and medicine, maintaining that your body, mind, and spirit are all closely linked. The benefits of tongue scraping fit beautifully into this ethos, as it’s thought to nurture your oral health, gut health, mental health, and beyond all at once. To refresh, some of the benefits of tongue scraping include… removing toxins, bacteria, debris, dead cells, and mucus: research finds that tongue scraping can successfully reduce bad bacteria in your mouth, helping to restore balance among the 700+ species of bacteria. In turn, this can help prevent bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease, and more. stimulating associated organs: the principles of Ayurveda state that certain organs are associated with regions of your tongue. When that region is stimulated and cleaned with a tongue scraper, it’s thought to stimulate the tissue and reduce the toxic load for that organ. This helps to restore balance throughout your entire body. improving digestion and overall gut health: digestion begins in your mouth, and studies show that some harmful bacteria that exist in your mouth can easily travel into your gut if not addressed. Research shows that tongue scraping in the morning can improve your digestion, elimination, and overall energy levels. improving your taste: by cleansing and renewing your taste buds, tongue scraping is thought to improve taste and give you a fresh palate. increasing health awareness: examining your tongue every morning during your tongue scraping routine can give you insights into your overall health. Ayurveda suggests that the color and texture of your tongue can tell you a lot about your overall health. Most commonly, a white tongue suggests an oral yeast infection (candida). nurturing your mental health: improved taste, oral health, and gut health can have huge positive impacts on mental health, as more “feel-good chemicals” and less inflammation throughout the body are known to improve your mental health over time. Now, let’s dive into which is the best tongue scraper, and how to create the best tongue scraping routine. copper vs stainless steel tongue scraper There are a lot of tongue scrapers out there, but we can sum up the biggest competition on the market in one phrase: copper vs stainless steel tongue scraper. Given that we sell a professional-grade stainless steel tongue scraper at Davids, you can guess which one we prefer. But let’s dive into some of the unbiased differences. First things first, let’s start by saying that both copper and steel are durable and capable of getting the job done. The biggest difference between the two is that a stainless steel tongue scraper will not tarnish, whereas a copper one might (even if you care for it properly). Your tongue scraper will get wet every time you use it, so you don’t want to worry about the water altering the material’s chemical makeup. You can throw our professional-grade stainless steel tongue scraper into the dishwasher (or hand wash it) without any worry! Now that we’ve covered copper vs stainless steel tongue scraper, let’s talk about the shape and design of your tongue scraper. We (and dental professionals) prefer our all-metal one-handed design for easy use and long-term durability. Other stainless steel tongue scrapers come in an arch shape with plastic handles. Plastic is less durable than stainless steel, and we don’t recommend putting plastic in your dishwasher (as it can release harmful chemicals at high temperatures). We find that our single-hand stainless steel design is easy to grip and safe to clean. how to tongue scrape While it might seem obvious to some, a lot of questions can arise about how to tongue scrape. See our answers on some of the most common ones below! Should I scrape my tongue before or after brushing? Our favorite routine goes (1) floss with our expanding, infused dental floss (2) brush with our premium toothpaste (3) scrape with our stainless steel tongue scraper (4) if you want to, swish with a clean, healthy hydroxyapatite mouthwash. Explore our previous article to see why we prefer scraping after brushing. How hard should I scrape my tongue? Tongue scraping should be a gentle movement. You shouldn’t feel pain or stinging and you shouldn’t see any blood. The pressure you use should be enough to remove the film on the surface of your tongue without any discomfort. How often should I scrape my tongue? We recommend tongue scraping at least once daily, but if you love how clean it feels (like we do), you can do it twice daily! How do I know if I’m doing it right? After tongue scraping, your tongue should be pain-free with no bleeding. You should feel a new, unique level of cleanness in your mouth, such that when you stop tongue scraping, you notice the difference. It’s hard to explain if you’ve never felt it before, so we highly recommend giving it a try! Whether you’ve never tongue scraped before, or you're a seasoned pro, our stainless steel tongue scraper is the perfect tool to achieve your mouth’s cleanest clean. buy premium tongue scraper now

small tool, big impact: brushing up on the eco-benefits of bamboo toothbrushes

You’ve heard that bamboo toothbrushes are better for the environment, but do you know exactly why? Of course, at face value, bamboo seems better than plastic. It’s natural, it’s biodegradable, and it’s not very resource intensive...things that plastic simply can’t claim. But there are even more bamboo toothbrush benefits below the surface. From sequestering carbon during the growth phase to releasing fewer greenhouse gasses during the manufacturing phase, bamboo toothbrushes have a far smaller environmental footprint than their plastic counterparts, and they’re gentler on your oral microbiome. Sounds like a win-win to us! Now, to shine a light on all the positives of the bamboo toothbrush, let’s dive into some of the negatives of the plastic toothbrushes that have been around (and will stay around) for far too long. how long does it take for a plastic toothbrush to decompose? Experts estimate that it takes around 500 years (maybe even up to 1,000 years) for a single plastic toothbrush to decompose. Even then, the pieces simply decompose into smaller microplastics, which have the power to pollute ecosystems in a less obvious way. It’s difficult (if not impossible) to recycle plastic toothbrushes because they’re so durable, and their small parts can clog up recycling equipment. Most get lost in the process and make their way to landfills, open fields, oceans, rivers, and other waterways, harming delicate ecosystems and precious wildlife. The plastic toothbrush, as we know it, has only been around since 1938....meaning every conventional toothbrush that has ever been made is still lingering around out there. (That’s part of the reason why we don’t truly know how long it takes for one to decompose.) You’ve probably heard us say before that 1 billion toothbrushes (equal to roughly 50 million pounds of plastic waste) end up in landfills every year in the US alone. Isn’t it time we switched to a better option, say the bamboo toothbrush? other environmental impacts of plastic toothbrushes Did you know that both the toothbrush handle and bristles in a conventional toothbrush are derived from petroleum oil? This leads to a lot of environmental pollution throughout the manufacturing process: extracting the petroleum oil → transporting it → refining it for manufacturing → and managing the plastic waste at the end of life. P.S. If you’re set on a plastic toothbrush, using a toothbrush with a replaceable head can help you reduce plastic toothbrush waste by 30%. But we much prefer our bamboo toothbrush, and we’ve outlined exactly why below. bamboo toothbrushes can decompose in just a few weeks If you send your bamboo toothbrush to your local commercial composting facility, it will decompose in just a few weeks. Five weeks for a bamboo toothbrush versus 500 years for a plastic toothbrush? We’ll take that any day. Worst case scenario, if you even just throw your bamboo toothbrush into your garden, it will still only take up to 10 years to decompose. But we recommend stocking up on bamboo toothbrushes and getting to know your local composting facility. Just search “commercial compost near me” to get to know your local spots. Now, let’s talk about some of the less obvious benefits of a bamboo toothbrush. Unlike plastic, bamboo is a real plant! Did you know that it can absorb 2x the carbon dioxide that trees can while generating 30% more oxygen? On top of that, bamboo is a fast-growing plant that can thrive in many environments without harmful pesticides and fertilizers. Throughout the manufacturing process, bamboo toothbrushes involve less energy, less water, and less greenhouse gas emissions than their plastic counterparts. What’s not to love? why do we call ours the best bamboo toothbrush? We’ll be the first to say that opting for any bamboo toothbrush is better for the planet than continuing on the path of plastics. With so many on the market, we wanted to round up a few important details that set our bamboo toothbrush apart from the competition. 100% natural bamboo handle: if you see color or other embellishments on your bamboo toothbrush, you might want to ask if it’s 100% natural bamboo. Our bamboo toothbrushes are just that…true bamboo. plant-derived, BPA-free bristles: our soft, BPA-free bristles are derived from castor oil. Unlike many others that are derived from petroleum oil, even our bristles are better for the environment (and your body) than their conventional counterparts. soft, gentle mouthfeel: our soft high-performance bristles deliver a powerful clean that removes plaque without being too harsh on your enamel, gums, and mucosal lining. The natural bamboo is easy to grip, allowing you to easily and gently maneuver it in those hard-to-reach corners of your mouth. sleek and minimalistic: everyone loves a toothbrush that looks as good as it performs, and ours sports a simple, natural look that will shine on your bathroom shelves. While 30 billion toothbrushes worldwide can feel like a problem too big to face, we want to encourage you that together, our small daily steps can add up to big leaps in the right direction. There’s power in numbers, and if we all begin the transition to daily oral care products that are better for the planet (and your body), we can make a big difference. Why not start the journey with a bamboo toothbrush? buy premium toothbrush now

earth month moments: five of our favorite ways to (oral) care for the planet

On behalf of the Davids team, Happy Earth Month! It’s one of our favorite months, as our love for sustainability feels shared and echoed worldwide. On Earth Day (April 22nd), over 1 billion people will participate in some sustainability-related event, discussion, or initiative, and we couldn’t be more excited about that! To get you feeling inspired and prepared for this month/day centered around sustainability, we’re sharing five of our favorite ways to care for your mouth, your overall health, and the planet that sustains us all. 1: prioritizing low-waste natural oral care We know what you might be thinking: they’re an oral care company, of course, they’re going to focus on things like sustainable toothpaste and sustainable floss during Earth Month. We understand, but please hear us out, because conventional oral care has been doing damage for decades. Did you know it’s estimated that Americans toss out... Over 1 billion (with a b) plastic toothpaste tubes every year Over 1 billion plastic toothbrushes yearly to go with them Over 700 million plastic floss dispensers every year About 4.7 billion floss picks, too Oral care isn’t going anywhere, so it’s up to us all to make a change, and we’re passionate about providing you with incredible products to go against the conventional ways. For starters… Our sustainable toothpaste comes packaged in an infinitely recyclable toothpaste tube, so you can easily avoid contributing to those 1 billion plastic tubes that end up in landfills. Our bamboo toothbrush is biodegradable, meaning it’ll break down and return to the soil in as little as a few weeks. Our sustainable floss comes in a refillable dispenser, so you can stick to the same dispenser for the rest of your life (and we hope you feel inspired to do just that)! Not only do our products care for the planet, but they’re formulated to nurture your holistic health too. You won’t find harmful chemicals or artificial/synthetic ingredients such as flavors, dyes, fillers, preservatives, and foaming agents in any of our products. Instead, you’ll find intentional ingredients that serve a specific purpose, nurturing your long-term oral and overall health. 2: shopping (and sourcing) locally Knowing where your products come from can help you make informed, sustainable decisions all throughout the year. Shopping from companies that source their products locally can help you drastically reduce your carbon footprint. Below, we’ve outlined some of our favorite ways to shop locally and sustainably. Find farmers’ markets near you. Sourcing your produce, meat, and eggs from local farmers allows you to reduce your carbon footprint, know exactly how your food was grown/raised, and protect precious farmland that might otherwise be developed for commercial use. Check out this USDA Farmers Market Directory to find one near you! Seek out “refillery” stores. Stores like this allow you to bring back your bottles and refill them, helping you cut back your waste and support local businesses. Know where your favorite self-care brands source their ingredients. Is your favorite brand sourcing all of its stuff from overseas? It might be time to make a switch (more on that below). Our sustainable toothpaste is not JUST made in the USA, it’s USA-origin too. Many of the big-name oral care companies ship their ingredients from overseas, mix them in a US factory, and stamp “Made in the USA” on their packaging. At Davids, we aim to source premium ingredients that are farmed, mined, and processed here in the USA. 98% of the ingredients in our sustainable toothpaste are USA Origin, allowing us to cut our carbon footprint, support American jobs, and be fully & proudly transparent with you. 3: embracing cruelty-free self-care routines In line with our love for creating cruelty-free toothpaste, we’re passionate about helping you curate entire beauty and self-care routines that honor the planet, protect animals, and nurture your health. To explore some of our favorite clean beauty brands, check out these previous articles: the ultimate holistic wellness gift guide: from premium toothpaste to aromatherapy 10 easy vegan swaps for your everyday self-care products They outline clean oral care gifts, skincare products, healthy home goods, and easy vegan swaps for common items that sneakily contain animal byproducts. These articles also call out the fact that some vegan brands might still test on animals, which is not cruelty-free in our book. You can brush in peace knowing that our cruelty-free toothpaste sports the Leaping Bunny certification, meaning we do not test on animals at any point in our supply chain/production process. 4: mastering minimalism You might be able to tell we’re lovers of minimalism from our brand ethos, our clean packaging designs, and the short ingredient list on the back of our sustainable toothpaste. We believe that with intention, simplicity has the potential to nurture your physical health, your mental health, and the planet....far better than complexity. Minimalism is based upon the idea that true joy and fulfillment come from within you, not from more and more material items. Instead of allowing all the people and ads of today’s world to constantly “influence” you, take a deep breath, acknowledge it as consumerism, and ask yourself if you truly need that item. Soon enough, you’ll find that your inner happiness can flourish with fewer, more mindful purchases. Not only does minimalism have the power to help you reduce your carbon footprint, but it can also reduce stress and anxiety in your life. That leaves even more mental space for you to care for yourself and the world around you! 5: spending time in nature As humans, we’re intrinsically connected to nature. Throughout history, we have evolved and adapted alongside nature and proven that our physical and mental wellness is deeply intertwined with the world around us. Scientific analyses suggest that more time in nature (visiting outdoor spaces more than once per week) is associated with better health. It also suggests that a deeper connection to nature is associated with more environmentally friendly behavior. As humans, we’re more likely to care for the things that are right in front of us, so be sure to get out in nature this Earth Month and beyond! At Davids, our sustainable toothpaste, natural bamboo toothbrush, and expanding floss are all made with (or infused with) ingredients sourced and derived from nature. From our premium mint essential oils to our birch-derived xylitol (and so many more), our ingredients offer an incredible, unexpected way to bring the natural world into your everyday self-care routine. buy your premium toothpaste now

how to relieve jaw tension and protect your teeth with hydroxyapatite toothpaste

Take this moment to pause for a deep breath. Let your mind tune inward and scan your body. Are your shoulders tense? Are your stomach muscles tight? Is your jaw clenched? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you’re not alone! So many people subconsciously hold stress and tension in these muscles. Of course, as a passionate oral care brand, we’re focusing on the jaw, one of the most common spots to store stress in the body. Now, do you notice that your jaw is tense without your teeth even touching? Jaw tension is not the exact same thing as teeth grinding (bruxism). While the two might go hand in hand sometimes, it’s worth noting that you can go through your day with tense jaw muscles without ever grinding your teeth. If this is you, consider yourself (half) lucky! But if you do both, don’t worry. We’re going to cover how to relieve jaw tension and some ways to protect your teeth too...with help from hydroxyapatite toothpaste of course. causes of jaw clenching Stress and anxiety are the most infamous culprits when it comes to jaw clenching. You might even notice that you also clench your jaw when you’re concentrating really hard, even when you’re not stressed! Other emotions such as anger, overwhelm, and sadness can also contribute to your tight jaw. Other variables such as medications, alcohol consumption, smoking, caffeine consumption, nutrient deficiencies, illnesses, and dehydration can also show up as causes of jaw clenching in addition to emotional variables. The reality is: that jaw clenching is subconscious, so it’s often hard to pinpoint one single cause or eliminate that cause from your routine. One of the best things you can do is simply become more aware of your jaw tension, checking in with yourself and your body throughout the day to see if you’re holding tension and help you identify your various causes of jaw clenching. side effects of jaw clenching Much like teeth grinding, the side effects of jaw clenching can extend to other parts of your body. This is yet another example of how oral health can impact your overall health! Some of the side effects of jaw clenching include: discomfort opening your mouth: this is one of the most obvious side effects of jaw clenching. Your mouth might feel tight and sore when you try to open it wide, and you may even experience TMJ symptoms. tension headaches: have you noticed that when you relax your jaw, other muscles in your face and head relax too? This is because they’re all connected, which is why jaw clenching can cause headaches. changes in facial structure: typically, long-term jaw clenching can cause your jaw to look more pronounced/square ear aches and ringing: tension in your jaw muscles can lead to swelling and inflammation in surrounding areas such as your ears sinus pain and nasal congestion: same as above, this inflammation can also put pressure on your sinuses which can lead to pain and congestion interrupted sleep: the stress that causes your jaw clenching might be enough to disrupt your sleep, but people who tighten their jaw are more likely to experience other sleep issues such as snoring and sleep apnea too. If you’re grinding your teeth as you clench your jaw, this can extend the side effects of jaw clenching to oral health complications. Teeth grinding can lead to enamel wear, sensitivity, tooth fracture, broken fillings, and more. Your dentist can identify evidence of teeth grinding, so be sure to get your teeth checked if you suspect you’re a jaw clencher/teeth grinder. how to relieve jaw tension Now that we’ve covered the causes and symptoms, let’s dive into the good stuff: how to relieve jaw tension. We’ve discussed how emotional stress plays a huge role in jaw clenching, so acknowledging and addressing this stress is an important part of the solution. We touched on the ways mindfulness can make you conscious of your (likely subconscious) jaw-clenching habits, so infusing micro-mindfulness rituals into your daily routine can provide a lot of relief. We also recommend dedicating part of your day to relaxation and emotional wellness, whether that’s going for a walk in nature, doing a guided meditation, or talking to a friend or therapist about your stress and anxiety. Mouth taping can also help with jaw tension and bruxism at night. You could be subconsciously clenching your jaw throughout the night to prevent your mouth from opening (and drooling). When you use mouth tape, it does that work for you! It keeps your mouth closed throughout the night (in a safe way), allowing you to effortlessly breathe through your nose to breathe deeper, filter allergens, relieve jaw tension, and more. Massage therapy can help you reduce tension in your jaw, face, head, neck, shoulders, and entire body. Massage therapy suggests that the jaw and hips are linked, and tension in the jaw can equate to tension in the pelvis and vice versa. Visiting a professional massage therapist can uncover other links like this, allowing you to address and release your jaw tension from multiple angles and areas of your body. hydroxyapatite toothpaste In addition to the methods listed above, it’s important to strengthen your teeth with hydroxyapatite toothpaste. As a jaw clencher, you’re more likely to be a teeth grinder...which we discussed can lead to a whole host of oral complications. You can think of hydroxyapatite toothpaste as your number one natural, daily defense against enamel wear. If jaw clenching and teeth grinding are gradually damaging your enamel, hydroxyapatite toothpaste can give your teeth a daily dose of remineralization, correcting scratches, holes, and imperfections in your enamel that could eventually lead to sensitivity, cracks, cavities, and fractures. The nanoparticles in our hydroxyapatite toothpaste have a unique way of penetrating your enamel and binding to the hydroxyapatite particles that already exist there. At Davids, we use a very high-quality type and grade of nano-hydroxyapatite, allowing our hydroxyapatite toothpaste to outperform various leading sensitive toothpaste. Check out our third-party lab test results for proof! There you have it, a Davids product you can depend on daily to nurture your teeth and ease discomfort, even as a long-time jaw clencher/teeth grinder. buy hydroxyapatite toothpaste now

shine bright this spring with natural teeth whitening that soothes your smile, too

Spring is right around the corner, and we want to help you shine as bright as the blossoming world around you! You know we share a deep love for nature, so of course, we prefer to take the natural teeth whitening approach. Natural teeth whitening allows us to avoid the harmful, questionable ingredients you’ll find in most conventional whitening products....while still delivering the same (if not better) bright white results! It does so by nurturing your teeth, gums, and entire oral microbiome, so you can say goodbye to sensitivity and discomfort in the process. how natural teeth whitening outperforms conventional products Unlike natural teeth whitening, conventional whitening products typically all have one thing in common: hydrogen peroxide. This oxidizing agent is famous for its fast, effective whitening powers, and there’s no denying the results. But at Davids, we’re constantly questioning the norm, searching for the best oral care solutions, and prioritizing holistic health along the way. So, yes, hydrogen peroxide works for whitening, but is it the best solution? Well, if it comes at the expense of your oral health (or daily comfort), we think the answer is no. How does hydrogen peroxide sacrifice your oral health/comfort, exactly? it can damage your enamel and tissue: research reveals that hydrogen peroxide can cause “dental sensitivity, cytotoxicity [cell damage], genotoxicity [DNA damage], pulp damage, and gingival irritations, amongst others.” This is because it can wear down your enamel and cause inflammation within your soft tissue as well as the inner layers of your teeth. (This is not the case with natural teeth whitening, which we’ll discuss in a bit.) it releases harmful free radicals: hydrogen peroxide causes the damage listed above because it releases free radicals (harmful, unstable atoms) as it works. These atoms are known to cause oxidative stress in your body (through the damage outlined in the previous bullet) which is actually linked to other health complications down the line. it often results in stinging, sensitivity, and overall irritation: the damage outlined above might show up as painful sensitivity, stinging, itching, and sores inside your oral microbiome. Is hydrogen peroxide whitening worth it? This is why over-the-counter hydrogen peroxide products are either banned or heavily restricted in regions such as the EU, Japan, and Canada. While they’re still widely available in the US, they are not regulated. So it’s important to do your own research to determine if using hydrogen peroxide products is worth it for you. Personally, we strongly prefer natural teeth whitening! natural teeth whitening remedies Just like peroxide-based whitening methods, there are so many different natural teeth whitening remedies out there. From daily toothpastes and mouth rinses to PAP teeth whitening gels and strips, you have so many options in the (safer) world of natural teeth whitening. our premium toothpaste All of our toothpastes are the perfect entry point into the natural teeth whitening world! They’re formulated to nurture a white smile that feels as good as it looks. Our premium micro-abrasives and baking soda gently “exfoliate” your teeth to remove plaque and surface stains, while neutralizing your mouth’s pH for fresh breath. Our sodium cocoyl glutamate is our natural alternative to the chemical foaming agent, SLS. It’s derived from coconut material, and it gives our premium toothpaste a gentle foam, distributing the other ingredients to help with the cleaning and whitening process. To sum things up, you can smile wide knowing every single one of our toothpastes works to give you a safe, nourishing daily dose of natural teeth whitening. pap teeth whitening PAP teeth whitening is stealing the spotlight these days, and for good reason! PAP is a synthetic organic acid that promotes bleaching in a milder manner than peroxides, so it doesn’t cause any of the harsh side effects! It doesn’t release any free radicals as it works, so it doesn’t cause as much (if any) inflammation in your mouth and body. (Note: stay tuned for exciting PAP product announcements from us this year!) There are so many different forms of PAP teeth whitening. You can find it in gels, strips, toothpaste, mouthwash....you name it! One of the coolest things about PAP teeth whitening is that it comes in a “PAP+” option that incorporates hydroxyapatite, your sensitivity superhero! Let’s explore this incredible ingredient a little more, and how you can add hydroxyapatite whitening into your daily routine. hydroxyapatite whitening We know, hydroxyapatite is a mouthful, and it begins with “hydro” just like hydrogen peroxide. It can get a little confusing over here in the oral care world. But we’re here to clear up the confusion and reassure you that hydroxyapatite is one of the best whitening ingredients you can add to your daily routine. (Actually, it’s one of the best oral care ingredients in general.) It’s a natural alternative to fluoride that works to remineralize your teeth from the inside out, repairing any damage done to your enamel. That’s right, it can actually reverse the damage that hydrogen peroxide causes! And it can do so while still whitening your teeth. This is because hydroxyapatite already exists in your teeth and bones, making up roughly 97% of your enamel and 80% of your dentin. That’s even more proof that hydroxyapatite is non-toxic and safe for your body, unlike many of the conventional ingredients out there. When you add hydroxyapatite whitening into your daily routine, you give your mouth a healthy dose of the minerals it needs (kinda like a super-vitamin). On top of this, research shows that hydroxyapatite can also whiten as it remineralizes. Not only that, but hydroxyapatite whitening has long-lasting effects. It actually helps your teeth form a new, healthy white layer on your tooth’s surface by filling in tiny holes and imperfections. The result is a bright white smile that’s way less sensitive, too! Hydroxyapatite whitening comes in many forms too, from toothpaste to mouthwash. We’ve got the best hydroxyapatite toothpaste out there, as it outperformed several leading sensitive toothpaste brands in our third-party lab tests. Not to mention, we’re working hard to create even more out-of-this-world hydroxyapatite whitening products for you! make Davids your go-to for natural teeth whitening With our classic formulas, our hydroxyapatite toothpaste, and so many more natural teeth whitening products on the way, make Davids your go-to for all things whitening. buy premium toothpaste now

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sweet news for holistic health: the benefits of xylitol extend beyond your teeth

Ah, here we are....another sugar substitute that’s hard to pronounce. But we’re here to assure you not to fear xylitol, as it has successfully weaved its way into the oral care world for good reason! Not only is it scientifically confirmed to prevent (and sometimes even reverse) cavities, reduce dry mouth, and freshen your breath. But it's also known to reduce inflammation, support your immune system, and nurture healthy metabolic function throughout your entire body! To celebrate this, we’re diving into the many benefits of xylitol. Whether it’s in your daily oral care products or your favorite nut butter, this plant-derived ingredient may work wonders for your oral and overall health. That’s why you’ll find it in all of our premium toothpaste formulas. It’s also infused in our expanding dental floss and our (soon-to-launch) natural mouthwash. quick refresh: what is xylitol? Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in various fruits and vegetables. When it comes to commercial products like toothpaste, xylitol is usually derived from corn cobs or birch trees. At Davids, we source our xylitol from birch trees, which is considered the best way for both you and the planet! With so many mixed messages out there, it’s perfectly normal to wonder, “Is xylitol safe?” The answer is yes! Otherwise, we wouldn’t have it in our toothpaste. Science shows that long-term consumption of xylitol is safe, so you never have to worry about it in your toothpaste, mouthwash, or other oral care products. (As a side note, xylitol is not safe for dogs, so be sure to keep your toothpaste out of reach and double-check to make sure your pup’s peanut butter jar doesn’t list xylitol as an ingredient!) Now, let's dive into how this plant-derived sweetener found its way into your premium toothpaste. Xylitol has an impressive history of stimulating saliva flow, killing bad bacteria, and providing a taste that’s sweeter than sugar. The benefits of xylitol align perfectly with a high-performing oral care product, which is exactly why we use it in all of ours. But the benefits of xylitol don’t end there. It’s actually beneficial for your entire body, which is why you’ll find it in food products too. More on that below! benefits of xylitol As a little history lesson, the benefits of xylitol were largely discovered shortly after World War II. During the war, Finland used xylitol as a sugar replacement, but they reverted back to normal sugar consumption as the war ended. Once they reintroduced sugar, Finland saw tooth decay skyrocket, which inspired them to dig deeper into the benefits of xylitol. In the 70s, they realized that people who replaced sugar with xylitol were much less likely to experience tooth decay. This was the beginning of xylitol’s fame in the world of oral care! xylitol in toothpaste and oral care Xylitol is famous for its ability to starve the bad bacteria in your mouth (called Streptococcus mutans). But what’s more impressive is xylitol’s ability to simultaneously feed the good bacteria in your mouth as it starves the bad. Yep, that’s right. Xylitol is an incredible prebiotic that reserves all its power for good bacteria. Xylitol is also deliciously sweet....with a refreshing cooling sensation perfect for oral care products. This helps your mouth stimulate saliva flow to relieve and prevent dry mouth, flush out bad bacteria and debris, neutralize acids, and restore your mouth to a healthy pH. This makes it the perfect ingredient for: premium toothpaste natural mouthwash floss chewing gum breath mints But that’s not the end of it; the benefits of xylitol continue to impress. This incredible ingredient has the power to reduce inflammation in your entire body, nurturing your immune system and overall health too! xylitol in your diet Xylitol has the unique ability to inhibit the production of cytokines, aka small proteins that trigger inflammation throughout your body. This means that xylitol can help your immune system focus on things that truly matter, like fighting pathogens! Not to mention, xylitol tastes just as sweet (if not sweeter) than sugar, but it has half of the calories and none of the harmful side effects of sugar (which include tooth decay, inflammation, high blood pressure, blood sugar dysregulation, weight gain, and more). The small intestine absorbs xylitol much more slowly than it absorbs sugar, which is great news for metabolic function. These are just some of the reasons why you’ll find xylitol in lots of foods, like: baked goods coffees nut butter sauces As we mentioned before, xylitol naturally occurs in fruits and veggies such as apples, raspberries, strawberries, carrots, cauliflower, mushrooms, and more. why Davids is the best xylitol toothpaste We consider ours the best xylitol toothpaste because it’s specially formulated to give you the healthiest, strongest, freshest mouth possible. We’ve paired this amazing ingredient with nano-hydroxyapatite to bring you the best remineralizing dream team out there. As the benefits of xylitol work their magic (killing bacteria and reducing inflammation), hydroxyapatite works to strengthen your enamel from the inside out....giving your teeth the healthy dose of minerals they so desperately need. Not only does this help to prevent tooth decay and gingivitis, but it also helps to nurture a bright white smile with little-to-no sensitivity. This is because xylitol and hydroxyapatite work together to eliminate sensitivity at the source by minimizing bacteria and filling microscopic holes and imperfections in your enamel. Not to mention, our other incredible ingredients (such as vegetable glycerin, premium peppermint oils, baking soda, and more) also work alongside xylitol to freshen your breath, stimulate saliva production, protect your enamel, and whiten your teeth. As you can see, our xylitol toothpaste takes a very different (revolutionary) approach than most conventional “sensitivity toothpastes,” which simply give your mouth a dose of synthetic drugs to temporarily numb your sensitivity. We prefer to give your mouth the care it deserves with Davids, the best xylitol toothpaste. buy premium xylitol toothpaste now

is alcohol free mouthwash better? swish to this healthy alternative, joining our lineup soon

Don’t worry, we get it. You absolutely love the minty fresh feeling you get right after you swish around your favorite mouthwash. You even love that slight burning, tingling sensation you get from the alcohol in the mouthwash. After all, it serves as “proof” that your mouth is as clean as it can get. But what if it isn’t? What if there’s a way to get your mouth feeling even cleaner...without any of the adverse side effects of alcohol-containing, chemical-containing mouthwash? We’re here to reassure you: you can still get that ridiculously-clean feeling using more natural methods. Swishing with alcohol free mouthwash can help you achieve your freshest-feeling mouth without any harsh chemicals. And it can do so while actually nourishing your delicate oral microbiome to promote overall health far beyond your mouth. alcohol vs alcohol free mouthwash Okay, so one has alcohol in it and the other doesn’t. What’s the big deal? For your oral health, this small difference can have big impacts. alcohol-containing mouthwash Many alcohol-containing mouthwash contains over 25% alcohol. The “alcohol” in the mouthwash is actually ethanol (the same substance in alcoholic beverages), and it’s known to cause its fair share of harm. It’s also worth noting that ethanol is toxic to the human body, which is why reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption is common health advice. Now, why would we want to swish the same substance around in our mouths every single day? Personally, we don’t want to, and we’ve outlined why below. bacteria balance: alcohol disrupts the delicate balance of bacteria in your oral microbiome. This balance is essential for a healthy gut and so much more (we’ll dive deeper into that in a bit). glaring warnings: many alcohol-containing mouthwashes feature use restrictions on the bottle, such as strictly using the mouthwash for a maximum of twice per day. You’ll also find warnings like, “Do Not Swallow.” “Keep out of reach of children.” “If more than used for rinsing is accidentally swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.” Personally, these are not messages we wish to see on an item we use daily! general discomfort: those of you who have tried alcohol-containing mouthwash might be aware of the burning, tingling, itching, and “peeling” feeling that can occur in your mouth with regular use. dry mouth: that “peeling” feeling might be an indication of dry mouth, a very uncomfortable condition. Alcohol is known to cause dry mouth, which can actually promote bacteria growth. Isn’t that the opposite of the goal? mouth ulcers: “overuse” of alcohol-containing mouthwash can also cause mouth ulcers, which are uncomfortable sores on the inner cheeks, roof of your mouth, gums, or tongue. So, is it worth it? Read on to find out how (the right) alcohol free mouthwash can give you the clean you want and deserve...without these nasty side effects. is alcohol free mouthwash better? Simply switching to an alcohol free mouthwash can eliminate many of the concerns listed above. But let’s not forget that “alcohol free mouthwash” is an umbrella term that includes any mouthwash that simply doesn’t contain alcohol. In other words, when it comes to the question “Is alcohol free mouthwash better,” the answer is not a simple yes or no… it’s more of a, “yes, as long as…” That’s because alcohol isn’t the only questionable mouthwash ingredient out there. So let’s dive into a few more. other questionable mouthwash ingredients outside of alcohol Not every alcohol free mouthwash is free of concern. Here are some “red flag” additives and ingredients to look out for. artificial dyes: these give conventional mouthwash its blue, green, and purple hues. artificial flavors: these chemical flavorings are often unsafe to ingest. chlorhexidine: this antiseptic ingredient is often found in prescription mouthwash, but research shows it can alter your mouth’s pH. This can weaken your enamel and make your mouth more susceptible to tooth decay, and it can also impact cardiovascular health. chlorine dioxide: this bleaching agent has been classified as a “hazardous gas” by the CDC. poloxamer 407: research has found that this detergent decreases blood flow in animals, and there’s enough research regarding how it affects humans. hydrogen peroxide: many whitening mouthwash formulas contain hydrogen peroxide, a chemical bleaching agent known to release free radicals as it works...leading to uncomfortable sensitivity and harmful enamel damage. Let’s meet some of the incredible organisms that help your oral microbiome (and beyond) thrive. meet your oral microbiome, an incredible world of its own You may have seen striking claims from conventional, alcohol-containing mouthwash: “Kills 99.9% of germs that cause bad breath, plaque & gingivitis.” But what about all of the incredibly important bacteria that naturally fight off the bad bacteria, aid in digestion, and maintain a healthy gut? (All of which, by the way, play a huge role in nurturing your mental, emotional, and physical health.) Let’s take a moment to meet these elusive “good” bacteria. streptococcus salivarius k12: fights off bad bacteria and candida and helps your mouth maintain a healthy pH, naturally streptococcus a12: work to fight cavity-causing bacteria (S. mutans) lactobacillus: these bacteria are known to help protect against gum disease bifidobacterium: help your body digest dietary fiber while releasing vitamins and aiding your immune system The right alcohol free mouthwash can (1) nurture these good bacteria and (2) help them in their mission to fight off bad bacteria. That brings us to the question, which one is the best alcohol free mouthwash? buy premium mouthwash now