Davids blog
how our bamBOO toothbrush and supernatural toothpaste help you fight the frights of Halloween
Spooky season has arrived, and Halloween is creeping up! The spirit of this season is both exciting and nostalgic, and we want to help you savor it in the most sustainable, mouth-friendly way. It’s no secret that Halloween is supposed to be scary. But perhaps some of the scariest parts of it are lurking in the shadows. the scariest sides of Halloween Ghosts, ghouls, and goblins might steal the “scary” spotlight on Halloween, but you can be sure that cavities and plastic waste are waiting for their turn at a jump scare. sugar surge Many news outlets claim Americans buy 600 million pounds of candy on Halloween. This sugar surge can cause some damage, especially to little ones’ whose teeth are still developing. How does sugar cause cavities? It “feeds” the bad bacteria in your mouth, allowing them to deposit acids on your teeth and form a gooey, damaging coating on your teeth (plaque). This plaque (and the bacteria and acids in it) eats away at your enamel, leading to sensitivity and tooth decay. Candies that are sticky, chewy, or long-lasting (like lollipops) can keep the sugar coating on your teeth for even longer than normal, really fueling those bacteria in your mouth to do some damage to your pearly whites. plastic waste On top of the oral care impacts of Halloween, it’s also one of the more wasteful holidays out there! Here are just some frightening facts about the plastic waste generated on Halloween. 40 million pounds of candy waste: it’s estimated that every trick-or-treater generates one pound of trash on Halloween, and there are over 40 million of them. Most (if not all) candy wrappers end up in landfills because they’re so hard to recycle. 2,000 tons of plastic costume waste: a UK study found that nearly 84% of Halloween costumes are made from plastic-derived materials, and almost half of them are only worn once. If these were to end up in a landfill, it would equal roughly 2,000 tons (83 million soda bottles) worth of plastic waste. plastic decorations: while there’s no way to truly estimate the waste generated from synthetic Halloween decorations, just think of all the plastic jack-o-lanterns, spiders, webbing, and other scary props out there. We hope everyone is reusing these year after year, otherwise, the plastic waste from Halloween keeps growing. our tips to fight these frights Keep up with your holistic oral care routine and be sure your little ones are doing the same. don’t indulge all day long: it’s better to enjoy your candy in short bursts, so the sugar has less time to “plant roots” on your pearly whites. This can look like grabbing just a few pieces of candy at a time or making sure you avoid those chewy, long-lasting types. drink your water: water can loosen some of the bacteria that might be getting too comfortable on the surface of your teeth. It can also help you return the pH of your mouth to a healthy level after some sugary snacks. brush after a candy craze: have you ever felt a rough coating on your teeth after eating some sugary snacks? Your teeth are telling you they want a little refresh! Grab your Davids bamboo toothbrush and premium toothpaste to freshen up after indulging. This is one of the best ways to nurture your long-term oral health (while avoiding plastics, too)! Explore new ways to ditch plastics. upcycle your costume: it’s pretty shocking how much Halloween costumes can contribute to plastic pollution. We hope these facts inspire you to DIY your Halloween costume from upcycled fabrics or old costumes! make your own Halloween treats: we know this one might be a little unrealistic if you get hundreds of trick-or-treaters at your door, but you can always consider making some homemade treats and wrapping them in a sustainable/recyclable material such as aluminum or beeswax wraps. use natural and/or reusable decorations: pumpkins are one of the best Halloween decorations! If you’re carving yours, we recommend repurposing the scraps in a yummy recipe. You can also DIY other Halloween decorations by upcycling materials around the house, visiting the thrift store, or reusing your old decorations every single year. Now, let’s dive into how our bamboo toothbrush can help nurture your long-term oral health while reducing plastic pollution all year long. how our bamBOO toothbrush and supernatural toothpaste can help On top of the frightful Halloween waste, did you know that 1 billion plastic toothbrushes and 1.5 billion plastic toothpaste tubes make their way into US landfills every single year? By switching to our bamboo toothbrush and sustainable toothpaste, you can eliminate your contribution to this plastic pollution altogether. And you can do so while still effectively nurturing your long-term oral health....even during one of the most sugary holidays of the year! Let’s dive into some of the biggest bamboo toothbrush benefits first. a bamboo toothbrush is safe: unlike other plants, bamboo doesn’t require pesticides or harsh chemicals during the growing process. It’s safe to use in your daily oral care routine, and it’s a great way to avoid putting plastics in your delicate oral microbiome. bamboo is naturally bacteria-fighting: it’s harder for bad bacteria to grow on the surface of a bamboo toothbrush, so you’re already starting with a cleaner slate. a bamboo toothbrush cleans effectively: our soft-bristle bamboo toothbrush can break down plaque, freshen your breath, and lower your risk of tooth decay when used daily. It does so without damaging your enamel or irritating your gums like some other toothbrushes. a bamboo toothbrush is easy to maneuver: bamboo is textured, so it doesn’t slip around like plastic. This makes it easier to reach all the tight corners of your mouth. a bamboo toothbrush is gentler on the planet: instead of a fate inside a landfill, your eco friendly toothbrush can decompose within weeks. You can send it to a commercial composter, put it in your home compost bin, or even plant it in your garden. No matter which way, it will eventually decompose and return to the soil, instead of contributing to plastic pollution. why Davids is the best bamboo toothbrush: our bamboo toothbrush is made with a comfortable bamboo handle coated with vegan wax to make sure it feels good in your hand and mouth. Unlike many other toothbrushes on the market with plastic bristles derived from petroleum, our bamboo toothbrush is made with BPA-free bristles derived from all-natural castor oil. You can brush happily knowing you’re using a truly eco friendly toothbrush. Now, let’s cover some of the many ways our premium toothpaste can help you minimize the impacts of the Halloween sugar craze, while also reducing your environmental impact. ultra-pure micro-abrasives: the micro-abrasives in our toothpaste are derived from sandstone and quartz powder. They work to safely “exfoliate” your enamel, removing bacteria, plaque, and other pathogens....without damaging your enamel or using any chemicals in the process. While other toothpaste brands might use low-quality imported micro-abrasives, ours are the highest-quality micro-abrasives sourced here in the USA. baking soda: the baking soda in our toothpaste works to kill the bad bacteria in your mouth, in turn, reducing plaque and taming bad breath. It also works to remove surface stains to whiten and polish your pearly whites! xylitol: this natural sweetener is very different from sugar, as it actually helps to kill the bad bacteria in your mouth. It does so by stimulating saliva production in your mouth, so it can naturally flush out bad bacteria to avoid the formation of plaque and restore your mouth to a healthy pH. premium mint essential oils: in addition to their fresh flavor, the peppermint oils in our toothpaste can actually fight bacteria. Research shows that peppermint oil is antibacterial against certain strains, including those that can cause cavities. nano-hydroxyapatite: hydroxyapatite is the hero ingredient when it comes to restoring and remineralizing damaged enamel (aka, reversing the damage that can lead to cavities). The nano-hydroxyapatite particles in our sensitive+whitening toothpaste work to repair your damaged enamel at the source, blocking exposed nerve passageways to relieve sensitivity and fight cavities. Not to mention, these particles already exist in your body, so this star ingredient is completely safe and biocompatible. Are you ready to outsmart the scariest parts of Halloween? Buy Your Premium Toothpaste Now.
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how mouth breathing impacts your oral health + new habits that can help
You’ve probably realized that how you breathe really matters. If you haven’t, you can prove it to yourself right now. How does it feel when you take a few short, shallow breaths through your mouth? Now, how does it feel when you take a long, deep breath through your nose...pausing at the top and exhaling slowly? Your breath has the power to immediately impact your nervous system, for better or worse. But did you know that the way you breathe also has a huge influence on the health of your teeth? It’s true, mouth breathing has the potential to impact numerous areas of your health, and we’re diving into them....so you can learn new ways to protect your oral and overall health from this poor habit. nose breathing vs mouth breathing Are you a mouth breather? The truth is, you might not even know the answer to that. That’s because breathing is an unconscious habit throughout the day (for the most part)....and certainly unconscious when you’re asleep at night. Let’s dive into some of the differences between nose breathing and mouth breathing, so you can see why this topic is worth your attention! Nose breathing is preferred because it... filters toxins: your tiny nose hairs serve a very important purpose. They naturally filter out allergens, microorganisms, and pathogens as you inhale. When you breathe through your mouth, these toxins can directly enter your lungs. humidifies and warms the air: this is important because your internal body temperature is high, so when the air you breathe is closer to your body temperature, it’s easier for your lungs to use. increases oxygen uptake: nose breathing produces nitric oxide, which helps to widen your blood vessels, making it easier for oxygenated blood to reach your internal tissues and organs. More nitric oxide can enhance your brain function, regulate inflammation, promote weight management, improve sleep quality, nurture your gut health, and beyond! In short, your nose was made for breathing and smelling, so it’s important to let it do its job! On the flip side, mouth breathing is harmful because it can: allow more toxins into your mouth and body: mouth breathing bypasses the natural filtration system that exists in your nose, allowing more toxins to enter your airway and irritate different systems in your body. cause dry mouth and increase your risk of tooth decay: mouth breathing can dry out your mouth and slow your saliva production, allowing bacteria to fester, eat away at your enamel, disturb your mouth’s pH, and cause bad breath. increase snoring and disrupt restful sleep: if you mouth breathe, you’re more likely to snore and experience sleep disruptions (including sleep apnea). negatively impact your heart, brain, and lungs: as we saw with nose breathing, nitric oxide is essential. You’re not getting enough nitric oxide when you mouth breathe, and this can keep your vital organs from receiving optimal oxygenation. This can cause symptoms such as brain fog, memory loss, asthma, abnormal blood pressure/heart rate, and more. Many experts agree that the only time mouth breathing is truly necessary is when you’re performing intense exercise, so let’s keep it that way! the dental signs of mouth breathing We’ve discussed how mouth breathing can cause dry mouth, but the negative effects on your oral health stem even further. The dental signs of mouth breathing can include: increased oral pH: as you sleep, mouth breathing can decrease your oral pH. This can appear as increased enamel erosion, sensitivity, gum disease, and/or tooth decay. bad breath: reduced saliva in your mouth allows bacteria to fester, causing you to wake up with “cotton mouth” and bad breath. enlarged tonsils: these are both a cause and an effect of mouth breathing. As mouth breathing dries out your mouth and affects your pH, this can lead to inflammation in the tonsils and adenoids. But enlarged tonsils and adenoids can also obstruct your primary airway and prompt you to breathe through your mouth. It’s a vicious cycle! TMJ and jaw clenching (bruxism): your tongue is supposed to serve as a “cushion” for your jaw, but mouth breathing can cause your tongue to move away from the roof of your mouth. With your tongue out of position, it can’t properly support your jaw and dental arch, which can lead to issues such as TMJ and jaw clenching. As you can see, “mouth breather” isn’t just an insulting term made famous by Stranger Things. It’s a serious condition to consider when it comes to your oral and overall health! how to stop mouth breathing Now that you know the harms of mouth breathing, how can you stop it?During the day, we recommend practicing mindfulness to discover your breathing patterns. If you find yourself mouth breathing more often than not, establish a daily ritual that includes deep breathing through your nose. You’ll also want to ensure that your nasal passages are clear, perhaps by using saline sprays/flushes.Nighttime mouth breathing is a little bit trickier. But don’t worry, there are countless brands of mouth tape out there that help you stop mouth breathing. For example, SomniFix Strips are designed to comfortably keep your mouth closed, your jaw aligned, and your tongue on the roof of your mouth, leaving your nasal airway clear for efficient nose breathing. how hydroxyapatite can combat the effects of mouth breathing Along with mouth tape and mindfulness, hydroxyapatite toothpaste can help you mitigate the effects of mouth breathing. We’ve discussed how mouth breathing can cause dry mouth, enamel damage, sensitivity, tooth decay, and beyond, so it’s a good thing that our hydroxyapatite toothpaste can help you combat all of those things!Hydroxyapatite is a substance that already exists in your teeth and bones. When you brush daily with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste, the nano-hydroxyapatite particles bind to your enamel on a molecular level, filling holes and scratches while remineralizing weakened areas. This helps to relieve sensitivity (within just a few days) and prevent further damage. Our hydroxyapatite toothpaste also contains vegetable glycerin and xylitol, both of which work to moisturize your mouth to prevent dry mouth. Glycerin is a natural moisturizer that stimulates your salivary glands, immediately soothing the symptoms of dry mouth. Research shows that xylitol also stimulates saliva production while starving bad bacteria in your mouth, providing an extra line of defense for your teeth! If you’re a mouth breather, don’t hesitate to add our hydroxyapatite toothpaste to your daily routine. buy now
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what causes cavities? our top five tips for holistic and natural cavity prevention
Before we dive into natural cavity prevention, let’s talk about what causes cavities. As Dr. Mark of Ask the Dentist explains, our teeth naturally know how to heal themselves, which is why it’s possible to keep the same set of teeth your whole life!How do your teeth self-repair? Between daily wear and tear, your saliva delivers a much-needed mineral supply to your teeth. This allows your teeth to remineralize any spots that have been weakened or damaged by bacteria (the beginning of a cavity). If your teeth aren’t getting a steady supply of minerals (or the bacteria in your mouth are too overpowering), those spots will continue to weaken and form a cavity.Conventional dentistry will tell you that you either have to brush with a potent synthetic fluoride toothpaste or “drill and fill” once your cavity has reached the point of no return. But we’re here to tell you that natural, proactive remineralization should be your focus and first line of defense against potential cavities. You can help your teeth achieve this natural remineralization by using Davids sensitive + whitening toothpaste, aka the best hydroxyapatite toothpaste, as well as the other holistic health habits we’ve outlined below. 1: take inventory of your oral health status We’re all starting at a different baseline when it comes to cavities and overall oral health.Even if we all had the same holistic oral care habits, we’d still have different outcomes. This is because different conditions can play a role in your susceptibility to cavities.You can start your natural cavity prevention journey by taking inventory of your overall oral health status. We recommend asking yourself the following questions. What does your tongue look like? Is it an even pink tone, or does it have discoloration, grooves, textures, or a white coating? Your tongue is always trying to tell you something about your oral and overall health. You can investigate by using some of the info in our previous article here. You can also take the first step to a healthier tongue by adding our professional tongue scraper to your daily routine! Are you dealing with dry mouth at night or throughout the day? Dry mouth will put you at a huge disadvantage when it comes to cavities. As we mentioned before, saliva plays a huge role in flushing out bacteria and toxins....as well as delivering essential minerals to your teeth. Dry mouth can be caused by your habits, mouth breathing at night, genetics, medications, and beyond. When was the last time you went to the dentist? Are you up to date on your x-rays? You could already be starting with cavities you don’t even know about. How’s your oral care routine looking? Are you brushing daily with remineralizing ingredients, like the ones found in our hydroxyapatite toothpaste? Are you flossing daily? No matter how clean your oral care routine is (or how stellar your oral health is), it’s always a good idea to check in every now and then. Now, let’s head into some other specific tips for natural cavity prevention. 2: prioritize specific vitamins and nutrients in your diet Hydroxyapatite, the hero ingredient in our remineralizing toothpaste (and fluoride's biggest competitor), is composed of calcium and phosphorus. These elements are essential for your oral health, so it’s crucial that you’re getting a natural supply of these in your diet. Magnesium, vitamin D, and vitamin K2 are also essential nutrients when it comes to your oral health, so let’s discuss some ways you can ensure you’re getting enough of them through your diet....and how they support natural cavity prevention. calcium: famously known as the nutrient needed for “strong bones and teeth,” calcium plays an important role in preventing cavities. It gives your enamel (the hard outer surface of your teeth) strength, and you can up your calcium levels by consuming dairy, chia seeds, sardines, salmon, almonds, beans, lentils, whey protein, tofu, and leafy greens. phosphorous: as another building block of your enamel, phosphorus is essential for your oral health. You can get more of it in your diet through the foods mentioned in the bullet point above + poultry, red meat, and more seafood. vitamin D: your body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium, and you can get more vitamin D naturally by getting out in the sun (carefully for a limited amount of time) and eating more fatty fish, mushrooms, oysters, shrimp, and egg yolks. vitamin K2: this vitamin activates a protein that helps calcium bind to our teeth and bones to do its remineralizing. You can get more K2 through fermented soy (Natto), sauerkraut, butter, chicken, beef liver, and egg yolks. magnesium: another mineral that helps your body absorb calcium (and activate vitamin D), magnesium is essential when it comes to forming strong enamel. Strong enamel is your first line of defense against tooth decay. You can get more magnesium through nuts, oats, seeds, spinach, soy, and supplementation. You can see that there’s a lot of overlap between each bullet point, meaning most of these foods are well-rounded and nutrient-dense! See if you can make some of them staples in your diet. 3: limit sugar and acidity in your diet In addition to adding mouth-healthy foods to your diet, you can support natural cavity prevention by limiting your intake of acidic and/or sugary foods and drinks. The cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth love to feed on sugar and use it to produce acid that breaks down your enamel. In a similar manner, directly consuming acidic foods and drinks (like citrus fruits, grapes, pineapple, vinegar, and alcohol) can weaken your enamel and make it more prone to decay. 4: listen to your gut While it may not be the first thing you think of, your gut plays a central role in your oral health. The balance of bacteria in your gut can affect the balance in your oral microbiome (and vice versa). If you have an overwhelming amount of bad bacteria in either place, it can take over the good bacteria and lead to tooth decay. Other gut conditions such as acid reflux can also play a huge role in your oral health, as we discussed how acid can wear down your enamel and lead to cavities. It’s important to consistently nourish your gut health by listening to any symptoms your gut presents and consuming gut-healthy foods. Fibrous, nutrient-dense, and fermented foods are great for the good bacteria in your gut, and natural stress management (through movement, mindfulness, meditation, restful sleep, and beyond) can really help your gut and oral microbiomes in the long run....all of which can support natural cavity prevention! 5: remineralize with the best hydroxyapatite toothpaste We’ve mentioned that hydroxyapatite is a combination of calcium and phosphorus, the building blocks of strong, healthy enamel. Brushing daily with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste is one of the best (and easiest!) ways to strengthen your enamel to support natural cavity prevention. Hydroxyapatite is the natural alternative to fluoride, but unlike fluoride, it’s biocompatible and safe to consume. With hydroxyapatite, you don’t have to worry about adverse effects if it’s swallowed or absorbed into your bloodstream. This is why you won’t find a poison control warning on our toothpaste tube! Why do we call Davids the best hydroxyapatite toothpaste? Well, we had a third-party lab test it up against our competitors, and it did the best job at remineralizing weakened, porous enamel (the most susceptible to cavities). You can check out the photo results for yourself! Now that’s what we call natural cavity prevention + enamel repair. buy now
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10 creative ways to celebrate world smile day + make it brighter with hydroxyapatite
Friday, October 6th is World Smile Day! Falling on the first Friday in October every year, World Smile Day is all about spreading kindness and happiness. We’re celebrating by exploring the history behind the holiday, some little-known fun facts about smiling, and some unexpected ways to spread smiles. With the potential to instantly boost your mood and increase your longevity, one smile has a lot more power than you might think! the story behind world smile day World Smile Day is the product of an iconic symbol: the smiley face.Harvey Ball created the smiley face in 1963, not knowing it would become one of the most famous (and happiest) symbols in the world. As the smiley face gained popularity, Harvey began to grow apprehensive about its commercialization, fearing its original meaning (to spread cheer) would get lost. (This is understandable, now that we often convey fake smiles through emojis on our phones.) In an effort to preserve the meaning behind the smiley face, Harvey created World Smile Day in 1999. From then on, the first Friday of October would be an annual celebration dedicated to smiles, kindness, and happiness. To get you feeling inspired about this delightful day, let’s dive into 10 fun facts about smiling! smiling alone can boost your mood by increasing serotonin + dopamine in the brain it calms your nervous system (in turn, relieving stress + boosting your immune system) smiling is often referred to as the “natural painkiller” it’s one of the few universal signs of happiness smiling uses anywhere from 5 to 53 facial muscles (depending on the smile) there are 19 different types of smiles babies can start smiling as soon as they’re born science says that smiling is contagious studies show that women smile more often than men smiling might increase longevity There you have it, one smile has the power to ignite a lot of positivity for yourself and the people around you! creative ways to celebrate world smile day The motto behind World Smile Day is: "Do an act of kindness. Help one person smile!” To celebrate, we’ve dreamed up 10 creative ways you can spread smiles. treat someone to their morning cup of coffee/tea make dinner for a neighbor/friend in need if you see a parking meter expired, add some money to it compliment someone out loud (often we think these things but don’t say them) leave a note with words of affirmation on someone’s car leave a treat outside for your mail/package carrier plant a new tree with a new friend write your partner an unexpected love note write a heartfelt thanks to your helpful coworker rake your neighbor's leaves when you go to do your own We’d love to hear the creative ideas you come up with! Be sure to share your stories about brightening someone’s day on World Smile Day. natural teeth whitening for a brighter smile We know it can feel hard to get excited about World Smile Day (or get all the benefits of smiling) when you’re not feeling confident about your smile. If you’ve ever felt insecure about the alignment of your teeth, the shade of your enamel, or anything in regard to your oral health, you know that your smile can have a huge impact on your self-esteem....often keeping you from avoiding the act altogether. Studies show that people who smile less seem less approachable and might not even get promoted as quickly as their smiling counterparts. To help you feel more confident about your smile, we’re sharing some of our favorite natural teeth whitening techniques. (In regards to issues with your oral health and alignment, we’re here to encourage you to make an appointment with your dentist.) hydroxyapatite toothpaste: brushing daily with Davids sensitive + whitening hydroxyapatite toothpaste can work wonders for your white smile. Not only does science show that hydroxyapatite alone can lighten the shade of your teeth, but it does so by strengthening and remineralizing your enamel. The result is a bright white smile that actually feels better since hydroxyapatite remineralization provides both enamel repair and tooth sensitivity relief. natural mouthwash: while conventional mouthwash is all about wiping out all of the bacteria in your delicate oral microbiome, natural mouthwash works to reduce bad bacteria and stabilize your mouth’s pH without completely wiping it out. It does so by avoiding harmful ingredients such as alcohol and peroxides and instead using intentional ingredients such as xylitol and hydroxyapatite. As the natural mouthwash effectively balances the bacteria in your mouth, xylitol and nano hydroxyapatite work together as a remineralizing dream team to strengthen your enamel (and your confidence along with it). Stay tuned for a special announcement from us about a brand-new natural mouthwash! PAP teeth whitening: Phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid (PAP) is a natural alternative to peroxide-based chemical whitening that’s gentle on your enamel. Unlike peroxide-based products, PAP teeth whitening does not release damaging free radicals as it whitens. On top of this, PAP+ is formulated with nano hydroxyapatite, the natural hero ingredient that works to remineralize and strengthen your enamel on a molecular level. PAP teeth whitening comes in different forms, including toothpaste, mouthwash, gels, strips, and powders. You have a lot of options to choose from, which makes it easier to integrate this natural method into your routine! You can see that our favorite natural teeth whitening methods all have something in common: hydroxyapatite. It’s the secret (natural) ingredient to a bright white smile, one that actually feels strong and healthy....not sensitive and vulnerable. We hope you feel inspired to celebrate World Smile Day by doing something amazing for your smile...and spreading kindness to all the people who could use it! buy now.
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do you need to floss? don't brush over this crucial step of your oral care routine
You’ve probably heard from your dentist that flossing is important for preventing plaque buildup, cavities, sensitivity, gum disease, and more. In other words, it’s pretty important for nurturing your holistic oral health! Whether you’re a flossing pro, a start-then-stop flosser, or an “I don’t need to floss” kind of person, it never hurts to brush up on the topic. Do you need to floss? Why is flossing important? What’s the best way to floss? What’s the best type of floss? Does the type of floss even matter? The answer is yes! All of these things matter. Don’t worry, we’re here to dive into all the specifics on flossing and explore all the ways that natural floss outperforms its conventional counterpart (hint hint, there might be a new Davids product launch on the horizon). At the end of the day, we only want what’s best for your oral and overall health, and a solid oral care routine with natural floss is the best. why flossing is important So, another dental professional has told you you need to start (or continue) flossing. You know it’s “important,” but do you know exactly why flossing is important? Many dentists estimate that brushing alone only cleans the front and back of your teeth, leaving roughly 35% of your teeth untouched. Not to mention, these untouched crevices are tight, making them the perfect place for bacteria to fester and gooey plaque to build up. If you’ve read more of our blog articles, you know that we believe in a holistic approach to oral (and overall) health. If your oral care routine neglects 35% of your teeth’s surfaces, is it truly a holistic oral care routine? Trust us, once you add a high-quality flossing routine into your life, your mouth will feel cleaner than ever before. What exactly do we mean when we say “high-quality flossing routine”? We mean one that uses top-notch techniques as well as non-toxic, natural floss. how to floss, the right way! Now, it might seem silly that we want to teach you how to floss. After all, it's pretty simple, right? Actually, flossing requires a lot of intentionality and practice! Even if you’re someone who’s been doing it for years, it’s always a good idea to brush up on your technique....because technique truly makes a difference when it comes to flossing. That being said, here are some tips to help you floss like an expert. We recommend flossing before you brush your teeth. This is because flossing dislodges stubborn particles and bacteria. Once those are loose in your mouth, we want to give your mouth a proper brushing to make sure we dispose of those dislodged pieces. Grab roughly a foot (yes, 12 whole inches) of floss, and wrap the ends around your middle fingers. You can use even more if that feels more secure and comfortable. Once it’s wrapped around your fingers, grip it between your thumb and index finger, and use your thumb to guide the floss between your teeth. Important: make a u-shape with the floss around each tooth, switching directions within each crevice to get both of the teeth that share that crevice. This u-shape is crucial, allowing you to remove as much of the plaque buildup as possible. Flossing isn’t solely about removing food from your teeth, it’s about breaking down that pesky plaque. Gently slide the floss up and down several times while maintaining the u-shape. Don’t press too hard on your gums when you slide downward....this can lead to pain and bleeding. While you’re in each crevice, try gliding the floss along the back of your tooth too, so you can target that pesky plaque buildup. A few additional pro tips: try changing the placement of the floss as much as you can, so you’re not reusing the same portion of the floss every time you enter a new crevice. Move up and down the strand to use a fresh piece for different teeth and avoid wearing one part down to the point where it nearly breaks. You can also rinse off the floss as you go to dispose of any particles. Also, you may want to try coating your floss with our premium toothpaste to increase its bacteria-fighting power! Last but certainly not least, one of the biggest tricks to flossing (and your oral care routine in general) is to slow down. We know it’s something you do every day, so it’s tempting to rush through the motions. But we really encourage you to slow down and take time to practice some mindfulness. It’s good for your oral health and mental health! why you should switch to natural floss It’s no surprise that we, a toothpaste brand, believe in natural floss over conventional floss. But we also recognize that many people may not feel passionate about (or even think about?) where their floss comes from or what it’s made of. But we’re here to change that. Here’s why. Unlike natural floss, many of the conventional floss options out there have a nylon or Teflon base coated in synthetic chemical wax. Right off the bat, this doesn’t sound like something you want to use in your daily oral care routine. You may have seen that non-toxic cookware is having a moment in the spotlight because traditional cookware has a Teflon coating. According to the EWG, Teflon is commonly called PFAS, a “forever chemical” that’s linked to many health issues. On top of the chemical issue, conventional floss is usually packaged in single-use plastic. So when you toss the floss, it’s likely to end up lingering for decades in a landfill and adding to the plastic pollution problem. If every single person in the US flossed according to ADA recommendations, roughly 2.5 billion plastic floss containers would end up in landfills each year. Sure, we know not everyone is flossing as recommended, but we think they should be! Sustainable natural floss, on the other hand, avoids toxins and utilizes sustainable packaging! A win-win for your body and the environment. If you’re wondering why we’re singing the praises of natural floss when we don’t have any on our website, all we can say right now is...STAY TUNED! For now, it never hurts to stock up on the best toothpaste. Buy Your Premium Toothpaste Now.
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how to tame bad breath and dry mouth on the go with our travel size toothpaste
Ah, travel days. There’s (usually) nothing easy or breezy about them. It can be hard to stay on schedule on these busy days, let alone make time for oral care. It’s no surprise bad breath and dry mouth often make an appearance on long travel days. To help with this, we’ve bottled up our amazing natural formulas into three travel size toothpaste options: peppermint, charcoal+peppermint, and our signature sensitive+whitening hydroxyapatite toothpaste. To add to that, we’re also sharing a few of our favorite tips for keeping on top of your oral care while you’re on the go. From brushing with our travel size toothpaste to snacking on antioxidant-rich foods, we’ve got you covered with tips to make your next travel day a whole lot fresher. keep Davids travel size toothpaste on you Our travel size toothpaste is the perfect on-the-go sidekick to keep your mouth feeling fresh and healthy. Our formulas were intentionally crafted to tame bad breath, soothe dry mouth, and nourish your oral health from every angle. Here are just some of the ingredients that make Davids the best dry mouth toothpaste. xylitol: xylitol is a powerful natural sweetener that does a lot behind the scenes. In addition to adding a sweet taste to your toothpaste, it stimulates your salivary glands to moisten your mouth. At the same time, it flushes and “starves” bad bacteria, keeping them from festering in your mouth, forming plaque, and causing bad breath. vegetable glycerin: gylcerin’s role in cosmetic products is to preserve moisture. It’s what gives your toothpaste its classic “gooey” consistency. On top of keeping all of the other ingredients fresh and suspended, glycerin stimulates your salivary glands to reduce dry mouth and flush out bad bacteria. Unlike many conventional toothpastes that source their glycerin from animal fat, ours comes from vegetable oil to ensure we uphold our cruelty-free commitment....another reason Davids is the best dry mouth toothpaste. peppermint oils: it’s no secret that the taste of peppermint oil alone has the power to immediately freshen your breath. But did you know that research shows it actually reduces the number of bad bacteria in your mouth too? This means it actually freshens your breath at the source, rather than just masking the odor. Like the other ingredients listed here, peppermint oil also stimulates saliva production to enhance our dry mouth toothpaste. baking soda: this gentle “exfoliant” is known for its ability to polish your teeth, neutralize acids in your mouth, and reduce bad breath. hydroxyapatite: one of our travel size toothpaste formulas contains hydroxyapatite. This innovative ingredient is the natural alternative to fluoride, working to remineralize and strengthen your enamel from the inside out. Because dry mouth can accelerate the growth of bad bacteria, adding hydroxyapatite can give your enamel an extra line of defense against these pathogens. These are just some of the many intentional ingredients that make our travel size premium toothpaste the best sidekick! Now, let’s dive into some other tips for taming bad breath and dry mouth when you’re on the go. try mints and herbal mouth sprays Now, we know our travel size toothpaste can only take you so far since you don’t always have access to a sink when you’re on the go. To add to your toolbox, we recommend natural mints and herbal mouth sprays to keep your mouth feeling fresh and moisturized. Here are some of our favorites. remedy rx breath freshener spray: this holistic superfood spray is made with all-natural breath freshening ingredients such as peppermint essential oil, cinnamon, and xylitol. oh my gum: There are so many conventional chewing gums on the market, but they often contain harmful ingredients such as synthetic dyes and titanium dioxide. But Oh My Gum is 100% natural and plant-based, using ingredients such as xylitol and natural mint flavoring. It’s also completely plastic-free! (Yes, conventional gums are often formulated with plastic...) As you can see, there are so many amazing ways to freshen your breath and soothe your dry mouth with natural, plastic-free ingredients! These two are the perfect companions for your Davids travel size toothpaste. choose hydrating snacks that mask bad breath When you’re on the go, you don’t always have access to your favorite foods. But here are some super common snacks and drinks that have the power to fight bad breath and dry mouth. green tea: this revered tea contains a powerful antioxidant and antibacterial called catechin. It can help tame the bad bacteria in your mouth that causes bad breath. It can also hydrate your mouth and help relieve symptoms of dry mouth. If you’re choosing an iced green tea, be sure it’s not full of sugar, as the sugar will defeat the purpose by feeding the bad bacteria in your mouth. yogurt: over time, the probiotics in yogurt can help nurture your gut health. When there’s an underlying imbalance in your gut, it can lead to bad breath and imbalance in your mouth. cucumber, carrots, and celery: these veggies are high in fiber and almost act as “exfoliants” for your teeth. They’re full of antioxidants and also help your mouth produce more saliva. apples, pears, berries, and melons: just like the veggies above, these fibrous fruits can also exfoliate your teeth. Many of these fruits are high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that can help your oral microbiome fight disease and infection. They also have high water content and can stimulate your salivary glands to prevent dry mouth and flush the bacteria that cause bad breath. When you don’t have the option to use your dry mouth toothpaste, at least you know these snacks are good for your oral health! bring a reusable water bottle Hydration is key when it comes to soothing dry mouth and taming bad breath on the go. On that note, hydration is a key pillar of your holistic, full-body health, so although this tip is super common, be sure not to gloss over it! When you’re going through security at the airport, you can bring an empty reusable water bottle, so you can fill up freely once you get through.Research shows that even just swishing your mouth with water can relieve bad breath. This is because the “flushing” alone can rid your mouth of harmful bacteria and debris that leads to bad breath, while soothing dry mouth at the same time.This 2021 study also shows that your overall water intake can directly affect your risk for periodontal disease (gum disease) and tooth decay. Even just one less cup of water per day can have a statistically significant effect on the prevalence of oral complications, so it’s very important to stay on top of your water intake even (or should we say especially?) when you’re traveling.Pro tip: if you always have your reusable water bottle on you (and filled up), you’ll find more opportunities to brush with your travel size toothpaste because you have access to water even if there’s no sink nearby. buy now.
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10 little-known facts about your teeth to get your kids excited about oral care
We know it can be hard to get your little one excited about oral health. With foundations that include avoiding sugary foods and brushing twice daily, it’s easy for kids to think oral care is the exact opposite of fun. But we want to bring the fun back to kids oral care by sharing 10 surprising facts about teeth. We hope these fun facts impress your little ones and help them feel more inspired to care for their teeth every single day. One of the easiest ways to do that is to brush daily with Davids strawberry watermelon toothpaste, the best premium toothpaste for kids! 1: you gain 12 teeth after your baby teeth fall out The first set of “baby teeth” only has 20 teeth! Once they fall out and you grow your second set of adult teeth, you have 32. With more molars and premolars, you’re able to chew harder, tougher food to make sure it’s easily digestible.Each tooth in your set of 32 has its own function, so it’s important to treat them all with love during your daily oral care routine. 2: your enamel is stronger than bone With a Mohs Hardness Scale ranking of 5, your enamel (the outer, protective layer of your tooth) is the hardest substance in your body.But that certainly doesn’t mean your enamel is invincible. Although it’s hard, it’s also paper-thin, and it comes into contact with so many damaging acids, hard snacks, and more. That’s why it’s so important to make sure your kids oral care routine nourishes and strengthens your enamel every single day! (More on that next.) 3: teeth are the only part of your body that can’t self-repair They can’t self-repair, so you better take care! We just discussed that enamel is the strongest substance in your body, but it contains no living cells. This means that once your enamel is truly damaged, it can’t rebuild itself. This is why it’s so important to strengthen and protect your enamel while it’s still healthy.How can you do that? Brush daily with Davids, the best toothpaste for kids. You can also throw hydroxyapatite toothpaste or natural mouthwash (fortified with hydroxyapatite) into your kids oral care routine to help them remineralize and strengthen their enamel at the molecular level. 4: on average, you’ll spend 38 days of your life brushing your teeth When you add it all up, you don’t even spend two months of your whole life brushing your teeth! We hope this serves as a little inspiration for your little ones to keep on going with their daily kids oral care routine. 5: your teeth have “roots” Did you know that only two-thirds of your tooth exists above the gumline? The part below your gums is called the “root” of your tooth. The root contains lots of blood vessels and super-sensitive nerves, which can lead to a lot of discomfort if not properly protected. The outer layers of your teeth (the enamel and dentin) protect the roots, so your nerves aren’t exposed to daily threats like sugars and acids. To keep your enamel and dentin healthy, you have to clean and nourish them every single day. So you can tell your little one there is rhyme and reason behind the kids oral health advice you always preach. 6: your teeth are basically another set of fingerprints No two people have the same set of teeth, just like no two people have the same fingerprint. Your teeth are beautifully unique, and we hope that makes you feel even more inspired to take care of them all throughout the day. 7: your teeth started growing before you were born Although your first baby teeth don’t erupt until 6-12 months, those teeth actually begin to form when the baby is still in the womb (as early as the 6-week mark)! Isn’t it cool to know your amazing teeth have been growing and developing since before you were born? All the more reason to treat them with special care. 8: before toothpaste, people used ground oyster shells The toothpaste we know and love hasn’t been around that long....compared to how long humans have roamed this planet.Before toothpaste, humans would create their own toothpaste mixtures from nature (hey, sound familiar?). However, their formulas weren’t quite as delicious and gentle as our premium toothpaste. They would use things like crushed oyster shells, charcoal, salt, animal hooves, eggshells, pumice stones, and more. Knowing that is enough to make us feel grateful for the amazing toothpaste we get to use today. 9: your teeth can tell a story When the Tooth Fairy picks up a tooth, it can uncover a lot about your little one’s habits. From the yellow plaque buildup on the surface to the scratches, holes, and imperfections in your enamel, teeth can tell a story about brushing habits, your diet, and your tendency to grind/clench.A yellow hue might tell a story of poor oral hygiene. A scratch on the surface might indicate frequent eating of hard foods (like pretzels!) or teeth grinding. Dark spots might reveal decay from excess sugar consumption.The good news? Your kids oral care routine has the power to write the story! Make sure it’s a good story by using the best toothpaste for kids. 10: dogs have over 10 more teeth than humans You now know that you have 32 teeth as an adult, but did you know that most dogs have 42 teeth? They have more premolars as well as sharper canine teeth, so they can chew through harder substances. And yes, even dogs have to keep on top of their oral health! why Davids is the best premium toothpaste for kids Our strawberry watermelon toothpaste is the best toothpaste for kids....because it’s not only delicious, but it's also effective at breaking down plaque, freshening breath, and leaving you (and your little one) with a supreme clean. And it does so without the use of chemicals or artificial ingredients! Each of our ingredients is derived from nature, and we never include questionable ingredients such as fluoride or sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).If your little one doesn't mind the taste of mint, we highly recommend adding our sensitive+whitening nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste to their kids oral care routine. As the best kids toothpaste without fluoride, it contains enamel-strengthening hydroxyapatite, the natural, non-toxic, and arguably more effective alternative to fluoride. buy now.
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how often should you scrape your tongue? our favorite routine explained
Tongue scraping is taking the world by storm, and it’s about time. This ancient practice can bring so many amazing benefits to your oral care routine, but it can be hard to know exactly how to incorporate it.Should you use your tongue scraper in the morning and at night? Should you use it before or after brushing? Where does mouthwash fit into the routine?Don’t worry, we’re covering all of these questions. quick refresh: the benefits of tongue scraping Before we dive into the step-by-step breakdown of the ideal tongue scraping routine, let’s do a little recap on the benefits of tongue scraping. If it’s something you’re going to do every day, you should at least know why it’s so great for you, right?Some of the amazing benefits of tongue scraping include: that *clean* feeling: you know that feeling when your mouth is really, truly clean? To us, that feeling is unbeatable. And without a tongue scraper, it’s almost impossible (just keep reading to see all the reasons why). removal of bacteria, toxins, and debris: the grooved, cushy surface of your tongue is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, toxins, and debris. By scraping daily, you’re starting (and/or ending) the day with a fresh clean slate. fresher breath + improved taste: by removing the bacteria and mucosal film that sits on your tongue, tongue scraping can directly freshen your breath and improve your sense of taste. better digestion and gut health: not only does tongue scraping reduce the number of harmful bacteria in your mouth (which affects the very important bacterial balance in your gut), but research suggests that it can also directly help your digestion. By improving your sense of taste, you can experience higher satisfaction during meals, allowing your body to listen to hunger cues and improve digestion. organ stimulation: ancient Ayurveda states that different areas of your tongue are connected to your vital organs. Massaging each of these areas through tongue scraping can stimulate and nurture these organs, including your heart, kidney, stomach, liver, and lungs. increased health awareness: your tongue has a lot to tell you. In general, your tongue should be even in color (a rich pink), smooth in texture, and free of grooves. If your tongue doesn’t look this way, check out our previous article which outlines certain health issues that can appear on your tongue. All of these benefits can improve your oral and overall health, reduce your risk of tooth decay, prevent gum disease, relieve tooth sensitivity, and beyond. the ideal tongue scraping routine First off, we want to warn you to avoid drinking water first thing in the morning (before your oral care routine). This is because when you wake up, your mouth is full of bacteria and pathogens. While it can be tempting to immediately quench your thirst, we don’t want you swallowing all of those harmful bacteria and introducing them to your gut microbiome.Now, let’s get into the routine. floss: we recommend Cocofloss, our favorite eco-friendly floss. brush with Davids Premium Toothpaste: all of our toothpaste formulas are made with intentional ingredients that reduce the load of harmful bacteria in your mouth, while whitening your teeth, freshening your breath, and nourishing your oral microbiome. scrape your tongue: we recommend tongue scraping after you brush, so your tongue is already coated in the amazing ingredients of our premium toothpaste. The residue of the toothpaste will linger on your tongue, and tongue scraping allows the ingredients to penetrate deeper into the tissue to effectively fight bad bacteria. (optional) oil pull: if you want to, start your day with some herbal oil pulling to extract bacteria from your teeth and give your body a healthy dose of nourishing Ayurvedic herbs. Swish the oil around in your mouth for anywhere from 5-15 minutes while keeping your mouth closed. Once you’re done, rinse with warm water. (optional) use a natural mouthwash: natural mouthwash is another amazing tool to help you feel super fresh at the end of your oral care routine. Unlike conventional mouthwashes that burn your mouth and completely wipe out the good bacteria in your oral microbiome, natural mouthwash works to balance bacteria and remineralize your teeth with hydroxyapatite supplementation. Now that we’ve covered the perfect tongue scraping routine, let’s discuss how often you should scrape your tongue....and what really sets the Davids tongue scraper apart from the rest. how often should you scrape your tongue? You’ll see some mixed answers to this question, so here’s the general rule of thumb we like to recommend. You should use your tongue scraper at least once per day, towards the end of your oral care routine (as explained above).Twice per day is ideal because the bacteria load in your mouth is highest at the end of the day and after a long night’s sleep. However, if you find that tongue scraping every morning and night is leaving your tongue feeling dry and/or sore, you can reduce it to once per day. Also, be sure that you’re not pressing too hard on your tongue. Tongue scraping should be a gentle, nurturing act that sweeps away the day’s (or night’s) impurities, and it shouldn’t be causing any lingering discomfort. why is Davids the best tongue scraper? Now that we’ve covered the perfect tongue scraping routine, it’s time to talk about the best tongue scraper out there.There are so many tongue scrapers on the market, and you’ll notice many of them are arch-shaped. But our professional tongue scraper is a natural stand-out with its single-hand, round-edge design that helps you clean those hard-to-reach spots on your tongue....without upsetting your gag reflex. Made of 100% medical grade stainless steel, it’s the tongue scraper that’s preferred by dental professionals....and actually used as an example in dental schools.In other words, it’s the best tongue scraper for your (now perfected) tongue scraping routine. buy now.
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our top five tips for becoming your children's oral health role model
Let’s face it: even as adults, it can be hard to stay on top of our oral care routine. Now, remember how hard it was to see the “bigger picture” of it all as a kid?Think back to the days when you would ask yourself (or complain to your parents), “What’s the purpose of all of this? Why the heck do I have to brush my teeth twice every single day?!”We want to help you make your kids oral care routine fun and enjoyable. We want them (and you) to see it as an opportunity to bond and nurture long-term holistic health day in and day out.To help with this, we put together our top five tips for becoming your childrens oral health role model, so they can look up to you for healthy habits, amazing products, and effective routines that they can maintain for years to come. 1: optimize + stay consistent with your own oral care routine Are you modeling an optimal oral care routine in front of your little one? You’ve heard the saying “monkey see, monkey do,” so let’s put that in the context of oral health! To brush up on the basics, here’s an overview of some of our favorite oral care habits. Floss (at least) once daily. If once, do it at night. Brush (at least) twice daily for 2 minutes with Davids toothpaste + bamboo toothbrush. Tongue scrape (at least) once daily with the Davids tongue scraper. If once, do it at night. Swish with a natural mouthwash or herbal oil pull weekly. To keep your mouth fresh after meals, use a natural superfood breath spray. Visit your dentist for regular checkups and professional cleanings every 6 months! Practicing these habits daily will show your kids that you’re committed to oral care, so they might feel inspired to do the same. 2: make it fun We know, this one is easier said than done.We encourage you to dream up new ways to make your kids oral care routine fun for the whole family. Can you pick a new 2-minute song each week to time the brushing? Can you buy fun colors of floss? Can you make it a family bonding activity by gathering in the bathroom? Can you think of a new game to play before, during, or after the brushing? Can you choose a delicious toothpaste flavor, like Davids strawberry + watermelon?Childrens oral health doesn’t have to be a chore. If you approach it like a fun event that brings you a lot of gratitude and joy, your little one is more likely to embrace that energy and feel more excited about it. 3: choose mouth (and gut) healthy foods Nutrition (in the context of oral health) is one of our favorite things to talk about! We have so many resources outlining mouth-and-gut-healthy foods, here are a few of them. the importance of nutrition for dental health our top five tips for nurturing your mouth-gut connection as a vegan the best and worst foods for dry mouth and how Davids can help In general, we recommend a diet that’s rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and diary. Ensure that these whole foods are providing enough fiber, protein, and calcium to support healthy bones and teeth for yourself and your little one. Last but not least, always remember to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! This is an essential step in preventing dry mouth and allowing your body to function effectively throughout the day. 4: emphasize that oral care enhances overall health It’s no secret that kids love to ask “why.” Does this conversation sound familiar? kid: why do I have to brush my teeth every day? you: because it’s good for you. kid: but why? Before you know it, you’re stuck in a circle of “whys.” To really emphasize the importance of oral care, we recommend putting it into the perspective of overall health. Oral health plays a pivotal role in gut health, which also plays a pivotal role in mental health, heart health, and beyond.Now, this can be hard to explain to your little one, so we recommend creating a relatable comparison (based on their unique interests) to explain the importance of kids oral care. We’ve listed a few examples below. Each planet in our solar system plays a role in maintaining balance, just like oral care plays a crucial role in maintaining balance in your health. Even tiny pollinators (like bees!) play a huge role in keeping our plants and ecosystems healthy. Tiny, everyday oral care habits play a massive role in keeping our bodies healthy. Just like bees, tiny (even microscopic) plankton species in the ocean are the base of the food chain, keeping ecosystems in balance and converting carbon dioxide into the oxygen we can breathe. They might be small (just like oral care habits may seem), but they’re mighty. Think about your little one’s favorite topics, and come up with one that you can relate back to demonstrate the importance of childrens oral health! 5: stock up on the best premium toothpaste for kids Our kids + adults premium toothpaste is the best toothpaste for kids because… it comes in a natural, mouthwatering strawberry watermelon flavor it uses 98% usa-origin ingredients it works hard to naturally whiten and clean your (and your little one’s) teeth it avoids controversial conventional ingredients such as fluoride and sls We’re proud to provide you with kids toothpaste without fluoride. You won’t find a poison control warning label on our kids toothpaste, and you never have to worry about your little one swallowing too much of it. Not to mention, our toothpaste is always packaged in aluminum (with a food-grade liner). So you don’t have to worry about plastic chemicals leaching into it, and you can smile brighter knowing you’re not contributing to the 1.5 billion toothpaste tubes that end up in landfills every year across the globe.In other words, our kids + adults premium toothpaste is sustainable, safe to swallow, naturally effective, and undeniably delicious. What more could you ask for? buy now.
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