Davids blog
10 common causes of sensitive teeth and how our hydroxyapatite toothpaste can help
Picture this: you’re eating an ice-cold snack on a hot summer day when suddenly, your sensitive tooth reminds you it’s alive and (un)well. We know how annoying and disruptive sensitive teeth can be, but we also know that understanding the cause of your sensitivity can lead to a long-term solution. That’s why we’re diving into 10 commoncauses of sensitive teeth and providing realistic, everyday solutions....many of which revolve around brushing daily with hydroxyapatite toothpaste. Because it’s time to get to the root of your sensitivity....and solve the problem once and for all. 1: acidic, sugary substances Acidic substances (citrus fruits, vinegar, tomatoes, yogurt, etc.) can erode your enamel and wear down your gum line over time. This “opens the door” for bacteria and other substances to enter the inner layers of your teeth, exposing the tubules that lead to your tooth’s center nerve. Foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates can have the same effect. This is because the bacteria in your mouth (and gut) release acids to break down these carbohydrates, depositing more acid on your enamel and gums and leading to sensitivity. Don’t worry, daily brushing with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste can clean up the acids, plaque, and bacteria in your mouth while also providing enamel repair, making your teeth stronger and more resilient to future threats. 2: brushing too aggressively One of the lesser-known causes of sensitive teeth is brushing too hard. That’s right, aggressive brushing doesn’t actually clean your teeth more effectively! Over time, it can cause more harm than good by wearing down your enamel and gum line. To avoid this, we recommend using a soft bristle toothbrush (like our bamboo toothbrush) and practicing mindfulness every time you brush. Make an effort to brush with soft motions, gently sweeping over your teeth and gums in circular or back-and-forth motions without pressing too hard. 3: teeth grinding Do you feel tension headaches and jaw soreness after a long day or a night of sleep? These could be signs that you grind your teeth when you’re sleeping (or subconsciously throughout the day when you’re stressed). Constantly clenching your teeth can also lead to enamel and gum damage, causing pain in your muscles and sensitivity in your teeth! Be sure to check out our previous article to help identify some reasons why you might be grinding your teeth....and how our hydroxyapatite toothpaste can help repair the damage. In short, the nano hydroxyapatite (n-ha) particles in our formula can actually bind to your enamel and repair the small holes, scratches, and depressions caused by grinding. 4: teeth whitening with peroxides Do you whiten your teeth with peroxide-based products? While hydrogen peroxide + carbamide peroxide are effective bleaching agents, they’re famous for causing sensitivity, burning, itching, redness, and swelling because they strip your enamel. Don’t worry, there’s a more natural approach to whitening that actually fortifies your enamel. Meet PAP teeth whitening, aka the peroxide-free future of teeth whitening. PAP is an organic acid that activates bleaching, and it’s often mixed with hydroxyapatite to give you a gentle whitening formula that nurtures enamel repair and soothes sensitivity as it whitens. What’s not to love? 5: chemical mouthwash Are you using conventional mouthwash every day? Many chemical mouthwashes contain alcohol and hydrogen peroxide, both of which are very harsh on your enamel and gums and lead to pain and sensitivity. Instead of completely wiping out all of the microorganisms in your mouth with chemical mouthwash, we recommend tongue scraping and/or switching to a more natural mouthwash. By making these swaps, you’re nurturing a healthier balance of bacteria in your oral microbiome (yes, good bacteria exist and are essential for your oral and overall health). 6: plaque buildup around the gumline Plaque and tartar are two things that will really harm your enamel and gum line over time, leading to very uncomfortable tooth sensitivity. When plaque (a gooey buildup of bacteria) sits on your teeth for 24-72 hours, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by dental professionals. So if your teeth feel rough when you press your tongue against them, you’re past due for a visit to the dentist! To prevent plaque and tartar buildup, brush daily with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste, which contains micro-abrasives to break down plaque, xylitol and peppermint oils to kill bad bacteria, and hydroxyapatite to deliver enamel repair. 7: acid reflux Just like acidic foods can cause sensitivity, so can acid reflux. This is just another example of how your gut health and oral health are so closely intertwined. Although many doctors will prescribe an antiacid medication, we feel it’s essential for your holistic health to identify the root cause of your acid reflux. Do you have low stomach acid levels from stress, magnesium deficiency, poor eating habits, H. Pylori infection, or hypothyroidism? We encourage you to visit both a medical doctor and a functional doctor in your area to develop a plan of action that best nourishes your oral and overall health. 8: cavity, cracked tooth, worn fillings It may seem obvious, but cavities, cracked teeth, and worn fillings are all leading causes of sensitivity and discomfort. If your sensitivity persists despite daily brushing with hydroxyapatite toothpaste, it’s best to get it checked out by your dentist to see if the enamel wear has progressed to decay. Dental professionals can also check for cracks in your teeth and worn fillings. As you get older, fillings can weaken and bacteria can build up around the edges, leading to really uncomfortable sensitivity that only your dentist can straighten out. 9: gum recession + gum disease You can see that many of the above causes of sensitive teeth revolve around enamel wear and gum health. If your gums begin to recede or form “pockets” because of periodontitis, you’re going to experience persistent sensitivity. When your gums recede, they expose parts of your teeth that aren’t meant to come in contact with the outside world. The lower parts of your teeth (which are usually protected by your gums) contain tubules that lead to your center nerve, so when they become exposed, sensitivity starts. If you notice your sensitivity is coupled with bleeding gums, redness, and inflammation, you might be dealing with gum disease. It’s best to get your gums checked out by your dentist to craft a personalized plan of action. 10: aging We can’t stress this enough: it’s so important to start caring for your enamel and gums as early as possible, so you can prevent sensitivity as you age. So, if you’ve been waiting to try out hydroxyapatite toothpaste, our best advice is to go for it. Your oral care habits, eating habits, everyday wear and tear, and genetics all accumulate over time, which can lead to sensitivity throughout adulthood. As you age, you might also be introduced to new medications that can lead to dry mouth and sensitivity, so it’s best to start enamel-strengthening habits when you’re young. why Davids is the best hydroxyapatite toothpaste You don’t have to take our word for it, our friends at Intertek performed a lab test comparing our hydroxyapatite toothpaste to leading sensitive toothpastes on the market. The photo results proved that our formula outperformed the rest, successfully promoting enamel repair by remineralizng holes, scratches, and imperfections better than our competitors. See for yourself why we call Davids the best hydroxyapatite toothpaste. buy now
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10 best summer foods that work with (not against) your vegan toothpaste
The sun is shining and the carefree spirit of summer is calling! From backyard BBQ sodas to sweet summer treats, the indulgences of the season can be hard on your teeth. But they don’t have to be. There are so many summer foods out there that are actually good for your teeth. So we put together a fun list of fresh summer vegan foods that play a special role in nurturing your oral health....in other words, ones that work with your favorite vegan toothpaste, not against it. Just when you think you know all about which foods are good for your oral health, you find out that kale contains more calcium than milk, and raw onions have the power to fight the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Trust us, there are plenty of surprises on this list. 1: kale When comparing 100g of kale to 100g of milk, kale has twice the amount of calcium....and only a quarter of the sugar! Now, what does this mean for your oral health? You may have heard this before, but calcium works to strengthen your enamel, defending against decay and sensitivity caused just like our vegan toothpaste! Kale is also high in the following essential nutrients, no wonder they call it a superfood! vitamin B6: an excellent anti-inflammatory vitamin vitamin A: helps your body produce saliva and absorb calcium vitamin C: plays a key role in cell growth, regeneration, and repair, which are all essential for gum health! vitamin K: this less-famous vitamin helps your body build a strong bone structure, working with vitamin D to deliver calcium to your bones potassium: potassium works with magnesium to regulate your blood acidity levels, helping your teeth and bones retain and use calcium more efficiently phosphorous: this natural teeth protectant is important for strong enamel, supporting calcium as it builds strong bones and teeth folate: supports blood cell health and tissue health, keeping your gums healthy while fighting off disease and inflammation Like many of the other fruits and vegetables on this list, kale is high in fiber. Getting adequate fiber in your diet can help with digestion, blood sugar regulation, managing cholesterol, and beyond. Fibrous fruits and veggies are also known to “exfoliate” your teeth due to their rough nature (kinda like the nature-derived micro abrasives in our vegan toothpaste). This can help fight off bad bacteria throughout the day! 2: apples Just like kale, apples are high in fiber and work as a “natural toothbrush.” While research shows that crunching on an apple doesn’t really reduce plaque, it does reduce the effects of bacteria in your saliva. In fact, eating an apple immediately reduces bacteria in your saliva in a similar manner as brushing with your favorite vegan toothpaste. 3: carrots You may have heard that carrots are good for your vision, but do you know how good they are for your teeth? They contain a nutrient that transforms into vitamin A in the body, which helps your body produce saliva, absorb calcium, and repair your mucous membranes. They also contain high levels of keratin, which helps to break down plaque and tartar and strengthen your enamel. On a separate note, carrots also contain a very specific fiber that “pulls” excess estrogen from your system, helping you detox estrogen in a healthy way (for both men and women). This contributes to a better overall hormone balance, which is very important for your gut, liver, metabolic function, and holistic health. 4: oranges If you’re going to indulge in a sugary snack this summer, make it an orange! Oranges are high in vitamin C, a nourishing antioxidant that can help your gums fight infection and disease. Research shows that low levels of vitamin C in the body can increase your risk for gum bleeding (an early sign of gingivitis). One medium-sized navel orange contains just about enough vitamin C to meet your recommended daily amount! Remember, just like other citrus fruits, the acidity of an orange can be damaging to your enamel. While we don’t recommend eating an orange every single day, make it an “every once in a while” sweet treat. To be extra safe on your enamel, you can always brush with our plant based toothpaste directly after eating an orange. 5: raw onions Okay, maybe raw onions aren’t the best for your breath, so be sure to keep Davids travel-sized toothpaste on you for this one. Research shows that the juice from a raw onion can fight four species of bacteria related to tooth decay and gum disease! Be sure to add this flavorful, bacteria-fighting veggie to your summer salads! 6: melons Many melons are high in vitamin C, which we know is great for your oral health. But they also contain high concentrations of water! While it may seem silly to “eat” your water, this approach can help to increase your water intake in the hot summer months. The water content from melons can stimulate saliva production and prevent dry mouth, which is essential when it comes to preventing plaque buildup, enamel wear, and gum disease. 7: parsley and cilantro Just like kale, herbs like parsley and cilantro are high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium, calcium, and folate. These flavorful herbs are also known for their antibacterial properties, fighting bad breath and plaque buildup throughout the day. 8: sunflower seeds Sunflower seeds are a summer classic! This delicious snack is high in arginine, an amino acid that’s known to help you maintain a healthy pH in your mouth, relieve sensitivity, and provide a small dose of calcium to your body. 9: cucumbers Just like melons, cucumbers are packed full of water! Did you know that they’re 96% water? Their crunchy, watery composition is great for your teeth and gums. As the water stimulates saliva flow and flushes out bad bacteria, the crunchy texture exfoliates your teeth and gums to break down plaque and protect your enamel. 10: strawberries Another vitamin-C-rich food, strawberries can help defend against infection. In addition to providing antioxidants to your body and reducing inflammation, vitamin C can also stimulate collagen production in your body, which can promote “thicker” and healthier gums to help prevent periodontal disease. don’t forget Davids, the best vegan toothpaste While these foods have some surprising oral health benefits, they don’t replace vegan toothpaste. Our vegan toothpaste is formulated with intentional ingredients that work together to fight bacteria, break down plaque, strengthen your enamel, freshen your breath, and whiten your smile....with no animal by products! Give it a try, and you’ll see why so many people consider it the best vegan toothpaste. buy now.
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dry mouth? not this summer: our top tips for staying hydrated for your oral health
It’s officially summertime! While that means beautiful sunny days and warm breezy nights, it can also mean hot weather, dehydration, and dry mouth. You’ve probably heard over and over that dehydration is bad for your body, but do you know how it affects your mouth? We know it can be hard to stay on top of your water intake, so we’re sharing our top easy tips for staying hydrated during the summer. We’re also diving into some of the ways hydration is essential for your oral health....in hopes that it motivates you (even just a little more) to meet your hydration goals this summer and beyond. is drinking water good for your teeth? Absolutely! There are so many reasons why drinking enough water is good for your teeth....and your overall health. it helps prevent dry mouth: dehydration is one of the main causes of dry mouth. When you’re dehydrated, your body doesn’t have enough fluid to produce the amount of saliva your mouth needs. When your mouth doesn’t have enough saliva, it can’t properly defend itself against attacks from bacteria and acids. Dry mouth gives bacteria the perfect place to fester and form plaque, which can wear down your enamel and cause decay. it flushes out your mouth: water literally flushes out your mouth, dislodging debris, pushing out bacteria, and preventing plaque-forming acids from sitting on your teeth and gums. This helps to keep your oral microbiome balanced, so the bad bacteria don’t overtake the good. It also helps your mouth maintain a healthy acidity level, as unbalanced pH levels can lead to bad breath, sensitivity, and enamel damage. it nourishes your gut health: water is essential when it comes to gut health and digestion. Water has the ability to transport nutrients throughout your body, flush out bad bacteria and toxins, and aid in several steps of the digestive process. We know that the gut and mouth are all very closely intertwined: your mouth is the window to your gut, and the two communicate via bacteria (among many other organisms). So giving your digestive system enough water to do its job actually nurtures your oral health too (and vice versa). Next time you experience dry mouth or digestive issues, try to take inventory of your water intake that day! You might be surprised to find dehydration can be the root cause of some of these oral and gut issues. easy ways to nurture your oral health through hydration In addition to avoiding certain foods, beverages, and behaviors (check out our old article, “the best and worst foods for dry mouth and how Davids can help”), here are a few of our top tips for staying on top of your daily hydration. start your water intake early in the day In the world of Ayurveda (a widely-followed ancient Eastern holistic health system), you should think of your body as a flowing river of water....constantly moving and washing away impurities. It’s important to nurture your river with a gradual and consistent water intake. In other words, you don’t want to forget to drink water all day long and then chug later in the day. That would overwhelm your body and disrupt the internal balance. Drinking water little by little throughout the day also makes hydration a little less daunting. Start your morning with 2-3 cups of room temperature or warm water to wake up your body, rehydrate your mouth after a long night, and get your digestive juices flowing. It’s recommended that women drink 2-3 liters (12 cups) per day and men drink 3-4 liters (15 cups) per day. Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and you should drink more if you’re active or out in the heat for a while (summer, we’re looking at you). Keep up with your water intake by drinking about 1 cup per hour throughout the day, and increasing this amount when you’re sweating. Drinking water frequently will also directly soothe your dry mouth throughout the day! drink room temperature or warm water Why did we mention room temperature or warm water over cold water? Warmer water is more readily available for your body to absorb, allowing it to better aid in hydration and digestion. Especially when you first wake up, your mouth and digestive system are vulnerable. They both just went a long time without any food or water, so you want to reintroduce water in a way that’s gentle and effective. replenish electrolytes Your body relies on electrolytes (common ones are sodium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium) to function properly. They help you stay hydrated, aid in muscle recovery, balance blood pressure and acidity, and promote basic functions like nervous system regulation and tissue health. You can lose electrolytes through excessive sweating, exertion, or even simple everyday activities. When you lose too many electrolytes, you may experience symptoms of dehydration such as muscle cramps, twitching, dry mouth, fatigue, salt cravings, and irritability. When it comes to replenishing electrolytes, we encourage you to do so in a way that nurtures your oral health too. Many electrolyte supplements out there are high in sugar and artificial ingredients. We recommend the following natural, homemade, and mouth-friendly electrolyte drink. 1 cup of water 2 tbsp of lemon juice a pinch of sea salt natural sweetener such as stevia or monk fruit Just be sure to drink it out of a (reusable) straw and rinse out your mouth after, so the acidity from the lemon doesn’t linger on your enamel. make it fun Let’s face it, drinking water all day every day can get a little boring. You can make it more fun by infusing it with fresh fruits and vegetables. One delicious example is cutting up strawberries, mint, and cucumber and putting them in your reusable water bottle. You can keep refilling the water over and over until the flavor runs out! You can also up your water intake by intentionally eating water-rich fruits and vegetables throughout the day. Melons, pineapple, peaches, strawberries, oranges, cucumber, squash, bell peppers, broccoli, celery, and lettuce all have high water content. We encourage you to add these to your diet if you struggle with meeting your daily water goals. brush daily with Davids, the best dry mouth toothpaste What makes Davids the best dry mouth toothpaste? All of our toothpaste formulas contain: plant-based glycerin: glycerin is a gooey humectant used to moisten your mouth and stimulate your salivary glands, which can really ease the symptoms of dry mouth birch xylitol: this natural sweetener also works to stimulate your salivary glands while fighting bad bacteria in your mouth that would otherwise fester due to dry mouth baking soda: along with our premium mint oils, baking soda works to neutralize the pH of your mouth to keep it healthy and prevent bad breath that’s often associated with dry mouth Not to mention, all of our formulas avoid potentially harmful ingredients such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS). SLS is a chemical foaming agent that’s known to cause irritation and burning. If you already suffer from dry mouth, you know that your mouth becomes extremely vulnerable, and even the slightest irritations can feel unbearable. This is why we only use gentle, natural ingredients that work together to prevent dry mouth and leave you feeling fresh and comfortable. buy now.
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your sensitivity superhero ingredient: how hydroxyapatite strengthens your teeth at the source
Experts estimate that 1 in 8 Americans deal with tooth sensitivity, and if you’re that “1,” you know just how painful and disruptive it can be. Just the thought of swishing ice-cold water in your mouth is enough to remind you of the pain that even just one single sensitive tooth can cause. While we could go on and on about all the ways tooth sensitivity wreaks havoc, we’re actually here to remind you that there’s a new sensitivity superhero on the block: hydroxyapatite. Sometimes referred to as nano-hydroxyapatite or n-ha, this incredible, innovative ingredient has been taking the oral care world by storm. As the non-toxic, natural alternative to fluoride, hydroxyapatite is revolutionizing the way we approach and treat sensitive teeth by fortifying minerals that already exist in your teeth to protect them against discomfort, damage, and decay. hydroxyapatite soothes sensitivity at the source, naturally What causes sensitivity, anyway? Tooth sensitivity occurs when your enamel (the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth) becomes worn down and damaged. When your enamel weakens, it exposes tiny holes that contain “tubules” that lead to your tooth’s (very sensitive) center nerve. Below you’ll find an actual image of a human tooth, magnified 3,000x. You can see that the enamel looks porous, leaving the tooth’s center nerve vulnerable to external stress from hot and cold foods, beverages, and air as well as sugary and acidic substances. Unlike conventional “sensitive” toothpastes that use chemicals like potassium nitrate to numb your tooth’s nerves, our hydroxyapatite toothpaste provides effective and measurable enamel repair at the source. The nano-hydroxyapatite particles in our formula actually weave their way into these pores, remineralizing the damage from the inside out. Below, you’ll find a photo of the results of using Davids sensitive+whitening nano-hydroxyapatite premium toothpaste (from real third-party lab results by Intertek). You can see that the tiny holes have been “plugged” by the nano-hydroxyapatite particles, creating a new fortified shield for your tooth’s center nerve. Now that’s real enamel repair that actually works to provide long-term tooth sensitivity relief. Our customers have reported less sensitivity within just a few days of brushing with Davids hydroxyapatite toothpaste twice daily. As an added bonus, research reveals that hydroxyapatite also works to whiten your teeth as it remineralizes your enamel. It does so by restoring mineral density and translucency to your enamel and the layers below it, revealing a whiter smile....naturally! In the process of brightening your smile, it actually makes your teeth more resistant to harmful bacteria and acidic substances. We’ll call that a win, win in the world of natural oral care! hydroxyapatite is non-toxic and biocompatible You’ve heard us mention that hydroxyapatite works its magic “naturally,” but what does that actually mean? Well, unlike its conventional counterparts (fluoride and potassium nitrate, we’re looking at you!), hydroxyapatite is non-toxic and biocompatible. This means it’s not harmful to your body’s existing living tissue. In fact, hydroxyapatite already exists in your body. It makes up roughly 97% of your enamel, 70% of your dentin, and 60% of your bone structure. No wonder it feels so “at home” when it comes to remineralizing your teeth! When you use nano-hydroxyapatite oral care products, you don’t have to worry about swallowing too much or using them too often. For all of the parents out there who worry about their little ones swallowing too much toothpaste, using our hydroxyapatite toothpaste gives you one less thing to worry about because it's safe for kids. You’ll never find a “keep out of reach of children” warning on our toothpaste tube because there are no harmful, toxic substances to be found in our formulas. hydroxyapatite is good enough for astronauts We’ve touched on the fact that hydroxyapatite already exists in your teeth and bones, but did you know that the first known applications of hydroxyapatite involved astronauts? Back in the 70s, NASA figured out how to create hydroxyapatite supplements in a lab and gave them to American astronauts returning from low-to-no-gravity environments. These astronauts experienced mineral loss in their teeth and bones during their excursions, and hydroxyapatite worked to effectively remineralize the damage. It worked for astronauts returning from some of the harshest living environments, so why not give it a shot at solving your everyday tooth sensitivity? hydroxyapatite is taking the world by storm While hydroxyapatite has been the “gold standard” for oral care in Japan (and widely used in other countries like Canada and the Netherlands) for decades, you probably haven’t seen it much on the drugstore shelves in the US over the years. This is because the ADA will only give its stamp of approval on oral care products that contain fluoride, so hydroxyapatite has been standing in the shadows. But the tables are turning. People (like you!) are looking for more natural alternatives, and hydroxyapatite is finally making its claim to fame. Now, you’ll find mentions of hydroxyapatite all over the internet, and you’ll see hydroxyapatite oral care products on store shelves all over the US! At Davids, we’re very proud to be at the forefront of this movement towards hydroxyapatite. something to smile about If you’re someone who experiences sensitivity on a regular basis, natural relief from nano-hydroxyapatite is certainly something to smile about. As you can see from our third-party lab photos above, our hydroxyapatite toothpaste is extremely effective at plugging exposed tubules and repairing damaged enamel to strengthen your teeth and relieve sensitivity. In fact, it’s so effective that the lab results revealed it actually outperformed other leading sensitive toothpaste on the market, including Apagard Premio, Boka, Colgate Sensitive, Risewell, Sensodyne Pronamel, and Tom’s Sensitive. Not only does our hydroxyapatite toothpaste outperform these competitors, but it does so without the use of chemicals. Not to mention, our hydroxyapatite toothpaste is one of the only products packaged in a recyclable toothpaste tube. Now, that’s a sensitivity superhero worth celebrating! buy now
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throw it "away" with care: your bamboo toothbrush can decompose within weeks
At the risk of sounding like a broken record....did you know that, in the US alone, roughly 1 billion (with a “b”) toothbrushes end up in landfills every year? Did you also know that it can take 500-1,000 years for a plastic toothbrush to decompose? Now, we don’t like to harp on the negative, but we feel that this is a devastating amount of plastic waste that many people don’t even think twice about. But we’re here to change that. As a company founded on the motto, “sustain nature+you” we’re always looking for new ways to clean up the oral care industry and provide healthy, natural, and sustainable options to optimize your oral care routine! One of these options is our amazing bamboo toothbrush, a sustainable alternative that can decompose within weeks. We know that opting for new, more sustainable products can be overwhelming. So to make things a little easier, we’re covering some of the most common ways to dispose of your bamboo toothbrush, so you can make sure it decomposes in as little time as possible. upcycle it Now, we couldn’t dive into the different composting options without mentioning all of the ways you can upcycle your bamboo toothbrush. Believe it or not, your bamboo toothbrush can live a long happy life once you’re done using it! We’ve outlined a few of our favorite upcycling ideas below. Use it to clean crevices and stubborn spots around the house. Whether you use it on the grout in your bathroom, stubborn spots on an old pan, a stain on your favorite pair of jeans, or the crevices in your favorite pair of shoes, your bamboo toothbrush can help you keep things sparkling clean. Remove the bristles to make garden markers. You can paint your bamboo toothbrush a fun color and use it to tell your herbs apart when you’re starting your garden! Since it’s recommended to replace your toothbrush every 3 months, it’s easy to collect these throughout the year. Then, come springtime, you’ve got plenty of garden markers for your new seedlings. Use it in a fun crafts project. Get creative here! Maybe you have a little one who’s working on a school art project, or you simply want to channel the low-waste artist inside you. We know that upcycling can seem hard at first, but once you start, we hope the creativity starts flowing....and finding second-life ideas for your bamboo toothbrush becomes second nature. how to compost a bamboo toothbrush If you know you don’t have any reason to upcycle it, make sure you remove the bristles with pliers and get to composting. Our bamboo toothbrush handles are 100% biodegradable, meaning no matter what you do, they will eventually decompose. This is one of the many bamboo toothbrush benefits to consider next time you need a new toothbrush. To speed up the process, we’ve outlined some of the most effective ways to dispose of it. send it to your commercial compost Commercial compost heaps are most effective at breaking down items such as bamboo toothbrushes because they’re operated at much higher temperatures than at-home compost. They also contain a wider range of materials and microorganisms that aid in the breakdown process! This means that when you send your bamboo toothbrush to an industrial compost like this, it will break down in a matter of weeks (versus the months or years it might take to decompose in an at-home compost bin or garden). If you’ve never sent something to a commercial compost in your area, don’t worry....it’s easy to figure out! Just start by searching “commercial compost near me” to see your options! The search should return facilities in your area as well as rules + regulations to be aware of. throw it in your at-home compost Do you have an awesome at-home compost going? If not, rest assured that summer is a great season to start! It’s not only the perfect place to dispose of biodegradable products like your bamboo toothbrush, but it’s an amazing way to make use of your food scraps, so you can avoid contributing ~120 billion pounds of food that end up in landfills each year. Did you know that experts estimate 30-40% of the entire food supply in America ends up as waste? All the more reason to give your food scraps a second life. To get your home compost started, we recommend this simple 5-step process outlined by NPR. Once your home compost is up and running, you can place your bamboo toothbrush inside and expect it to decompose in roughly 4-6 months. The actual time will depend on the temperature of your compost as well as the other items and microorganisms present in the heap. To speed things up, it can help to (safely) cut the toothbrush into smaller pieces using a saw. plant it in soil If you don’t have a home compost (apartment life or city living doesn’t always allow for this), you can also plant your bamboo toothbrush in soil. If you have a friend with a garden, you can plant it horizontally in the garden, and it will decompose in about three years. It’s not the most effective route, so we recommend trying out the first two options before this! Remember, a commercial compost facility is probably within reach, you just have to find it. last ditch effort: toss it in your garden Last and actually least: if you simply throw your bamboo toothbrush (without the bristles) into your garden, you can have peace of mind knowing it will eventually decompose. We don’t recommend this route....it’ll probably take 5-10 years to decompose this way. But at least that’s a teeny tiny amount of time compared to the 1,000+ years it could take for a plastic toothbrush to decompose! What makes Davids’ the best bamboo toothbrush To us, a bamboo toothbrush is a no-brainer. But things get tricky when it comes to choosing from the countless options on the market. We may be biased, but there are a few matter-of-fact things that set our bamboo toothbrush apart from the rest. First and foremost, our soft performance bristles are BPA-free and derived from castor oil. Unlike most toothbrushes out there that use bristles derived from petroleum, our plant-based bristles have soothing capabilities, as castor oil is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. The softness of our bristles allows for gentle, effective cleaning. We do not take shortcuts when it comes to bristle production, so you can brush happily knowing these high-quality bristles are good for your enamel and gums. Second, our bamboo handle is easy to maneuver and known for its smooth and gentle mouthfeel. So you can get to those hard-to-reach places in your mouth without causing any discomfort. And last but not least, our bamboo toothbrush comes in FSC-certified, sustainable packaging. So you can brush in peace knowing that Davids’ is the best bamboo toothbrush to sustain nature+you. buy now
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brush away the day: why your oral care routine is extra important before bed
Think about your day from your mouth’s point of view. You brush your teeth first thing in the morning, and then you move through your day consuming all kinds of things, many of which can do some damage to your delicate oral microbiome. Your morning coffee, your delicious lemon water, your favorite crunchy snacks, your afternoon sweet treat....the list goes on and on! Now, you’re getting ready for bed. Your mouth is craving a clean slate. Not only has it been through a lot today, but it’s about to enter a night of sleep, which brings on a whole new set of challenges. Don’t worry, because we care so deeply about your oral health, we’re going to discuss some of these challenges....and the perfect lineup of Davids products (our bamboo toothbrush, nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste, and tongue scraper) to bring you the perfect nighttime oral care routine to ensure your mouth continues to thrive through the night. what happens in your mouth overnight Trust us, there’s a lot that goes on behind closed lips at night. decreased saliva production When you’re sleeping, your saliva production naturally drops dramatically. Why is this such an important detail? Because saliva plays a critical role in flushing bacteria, keeping your mouth at a healthy pH, and preventing tooth damage and decay. When saliva production decreases overnight, it gives bacteria an ideal environment to fester and deposit damaging acids onto your enamel. This is a huge reason why it’s so important to start with a “clean slate” before your head hits the pillow. Not to mention, our natural formulas make for the best dry mouth toothpaste, as every single one contains moistening ingredients such as vegetable glycerin, birch xylitol, and natural mint oils that work to stimulate saliva production and fight bad bacteria. mouth breathing According to an online survey of over 1,000 Americans, it’s estimated that 71% of beds around the country host a mouth breather. What’s the big deal about mouth breathing? Well, it’s much more complicated than simply breathing through your mouth over your nose. When you breathe through your mouth at night, it can lead to numerous unwanted consequences. First off, you might wake up with dry mouth, bad breath, drool marks, and fatigue. We talked about how saliva production naturally decreases at night (and the negative effects of that), and mouth breathing can compound this issue. This is another reason it’s so important to make sure you’re starting the night with a clean mouth (and maybe using some mouth tape to encourage nose breathing, too). teeth grinding If you grind your teeth at night, you’re not alone. Teeth grinding (bruxism) is super common, and it has so many adverse effects. Bruxism can lead to things such as tension headaches, enamel damage, tooth pain, sore jaw muscles, restricted range of motion in your jaw, ear aches, gum recession, and more. All the more reason to take care of your teeth with a healthy oral care routine before you go to sleep. We recommend a routine that diligently involves nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste (which fortifies your enamel, as we’ll discuss below) and potentially a custom mouth guard that protects against bruxism. how Davids can help We know....yikes. A lot of nightmare-ish things can happen to your mouth while you sleep. But don’t worry, there are so many things you can do to protect your mouth overnight, and we have the products to help you do just that. It all starts with a healthy holistic oral care routine that you can look forward to every night. Here’s our favorite lineup. bamboo toothbrush Start by grabbing your Davids premium bamboo toothbrush. With its 100% bamboo handle, it’s the perfect toothbrush to get to all the hard-to-reach nooks of your mouth to make sure your mouth is squeaky clean before bed. Unlike many other products on the market, our bamboo toothbrush is made with soft, BPA-free bristles derived from castor oil (not petroleum). It’s the perfect tool to give your mouth a gentle clean before bed while doing something nice for the planet too! P.S. We can’t talk about our favorite nighttime oral care routine without mentioning floss! When you skip flossing, you could be leaving up to 30% of your teeth’s overall surface untouched before you go to bed. This is practically a field day for bacteria! So be sure to floss, so you can prevent bacteria from festering in all the tiny crevices of your teeth. We recommend Cocofloss, a sustainable vegan floss made with soft woven threads and cleansing coconut oil. nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste Next up, reach for Davids hydroxyapatite toothpaste. Brushing with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste before bed gives your enamel (which is already 97% hydroxyapatite, to begin with) a healthy dose of remineralization. The nano-hydroxyapatite particles bind to your enamel to fill small holes, scratches, and imperfections caused by bacteria and grinding....which we know can do some damage while you sleep! On the bright side, when you let nano-hydroxyapatite work its magic overnight, it gives your teeth an extra line of defense against nighttime issues such as dry mouth, mouth breathing, and teeth grinding. tongue scraper And last, but certainly not least, it’s time to scrape your tongue. You’ve probably heard your whole life about how important it is to brush and floss before bed, but has anyone told you how important it is to scrape your tongue before you sleep? If not, we’re here to do just that. Your tongue is a soft, cushy breeding ground for bacteria. And since nighttime is such a prime time for bacteria to wreak havoc, it’s super important that you scrape your tongue clean before bed. Tongue scraping might sound scary, but we promise it’s a very soothing technique. It’s been around for centuries, and for good reason. Tongue scraping has so many benefits, some of which include: clearing dead cells, bacteria, and toxins stimulating your tongue’s soft tissue enhancing your taste prevent bad breath (we know that can get worse overnight) decrease your body’s overall toxin load Our 100% medical grade stainless steel tongue scraper has a very unique one-handed design, so you can smoothly and easily swipe away unwanted bacteria at the end of the day. Why wouldn’t you want to give your mouth and body these amazing benefits before you hit the hay? buy now.
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kick start your plastic free july with our top tips and zero waste toothpaste
At Davids, we're all about sustaining nature+you. That’s why we prioritize zero waste toothpaste formulas, sustainable packaging, and intentional processes that keep plastic waste to an absolute minimum. In honor of Plastic Free July, we're highlighting some of our favorite ways to be part of the solution in the fight against plastic pollution. Are you up for the challenge? what is Plastic Free July? Plastic Free July is one of the largest, most impactful environmental movements in the world. Since its founding in 2011 by Rebecca Prince-Ruiz and a small local government team in Western Australia, Plastic Free July has reached millions of people all over the world....and made a huge impact in the fight against plastic pollution along the way. It’s estimated that Plastic Free July have participants have: Reduced annual household waste by 3.5% per person Saved 2 billion tons of waste, including over 650 million pounds of plastic (over the years) Integrated their new low-waste habits into their lives beyond July 11 years later, the initiative has reduced the global demand for plastics, including lowering the use of plastic water bottles by 2.3%, fruit + vegetable packaging by 3.1%, and plastic straws by 4%. This measurable progress is proof that there’s power in numbers, and even just a month-long collective effort to reduce our plastic consumption can go a long way. how can you be part of the solution? Plastic Free July outlines attainable goals and ideas to help you reduce your plastic consumption so that your efforts in July can easily transform into real lifestyle habits. Check out this link to see some of their ideas....from bringing your own reusable coffee cup to getting crafty with your trash bag liners. In addition to their tips, we’re sharing some of our favorite ways to participate in Plastic Free July while keeping the bigger picture in mind. practice mindfulness We live in a world surrounded by plastics. From meats sealed in plastic packaging to plastic toothbrushes, we come in contact with so many plastics that we may not even realize because we’re just so used to them. The daily grind of life often forces us into this place of living on “autopilot,” where we go through the motions of our day not thinking twice about what we’re doing or why we’re doing it. This is where mindfulness comes in: it’s an amazing practice that directly challenges this “autopilot” mode of moving through life. Mindfulness is a conscious, intentional practice centered around grounding you in the present moment. In other words, mindfulness invoices you to pause, take a deep breath, come into your body, and take the time to truly exist and absorb the present moment. By doing this, you become more aware of your actions, challenging “autopilot” mode so you can make more conscious decisions. Think of your morning routine as an example. Maybe you wake up, brush your teeth, do your skincare routine, and make your bed. You’re so used to moving through the motions of your routine that you may not stop to think about how many products in that routine (your toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, face wash, moisturizer, etc.) come in plastic bottles. By practicing mindfulness, you can really make a mental note of each action. For example: How does your toothbrush feel moving against your teeth and gums? Do you know what the bristles are made of and how they’re made? How does the toothpaste tube feel when you squeeze it? Is it made from plastic, or is it a recyclable toothpaste tube? How does your face wash feel when you lather it on your skin? When you press the pump? Is the pump plastic? And so on. Practicing mindfulness throughout your day can help you take inventory of just how much plastic you’re interacting with on a daily basis....which brings us to our next tip for Plastic Free July. take inventory + identify easy swaps As you move through your day, it can be helpful to take inventory of plastics. One easy way to do this is to take inventory by room. How many plastics are you coming into contact with in the bathroom, the kitchen, your bedroom, your office (home or public), or the coffee shop? Think of all the places you go most days, and this will help you begin to estimate how many plastics you’re encountering through your regular routine. Below, we’ve outlined a few common “easy swaps” to get you started on this activity. Bedroom + Bathroom conventional deodorant → deodorant that comes in paper packaging conventional shampoo & conditioner → plastic free shampoo & conditioner bars plastic toothpaste tube → Davids recyclable toothpaste tube toothpaste tubes with plastic caps → Davids zero waste toothpaste option (explained below) plastic toothbrush → Davids premium soft bamboo toothbrush Kitchen plastic resealable bags → Stasher bags or glass containers plastic water bottle → reusable stainless steel or glass bottles plastic trash bags → paper bags Office hand lotion in plastics → lotion that comes in a glass jar virgin plastic pens → pens made from recycled plastic See what others you can identify throughout your day! register for the Plastic Free July challenge When you officially register for the Plastic Free July challenge, you’ll receive tips and tricks to keep you motivated throughout the month. It can also help you truly feel like a part of the larger global movement to stray away from plastics. Community support is always important when it comes to taking on a new challenge! what we’re doing at Davids From day one, we’ve always been focused on reducing our plastic waste (and overall environmental footprint) throughout our entire supply chain at Davids. From domestic sourcing and production (which helps us minimize our shipping waste and emissions) to bottling (or should we say tubing?) our zero waste toothpaste in aluminum, we always prioritize plastic-free processes. recyclable toothpaste tube: our recyclable toothpaste tubes are made from aluminum, one of the most infinitely recyclable materials on the planet! Did you know that of all the aluminum ever produced in the US, nearly 75% is still in circulation? By switching to Davids, you can avoid contributing to the 1.5 billion plastic toothpaste tubes that make their way to landfills every single year. zero waste toothpaste: when checking out on our website, you can enter ***REMOVE CAP*** on the second line of the address field to have a completely plastic free toothpaste option. sustainable toothpaste packaging: our toothpaste is always delivered in FSC-certified sustainable packaging, meaning the paperboard comes from responsibly managed forests and does not contribute to deforestation. Not to mention, it’s not plastic! bamboo toothbrush: to avoid contributing to the 1 billion plastic toothbrushes that end up in landfills every year, make the switch to our premium bamboo toothbrush. The bamboo handle is 100% compostable and the bristles are soft, high-performance, and BPA-free. stainless steel tongue scraper: to effectively clean your tongue and reduce the need for a mouthwash that comes packaged in plastic, we recommend adding a medical-grade stainless steel tongue scraper to your routine. It can help you prevent bad breath, reduce bacteria, and improve your overall oral health without any plastic in sight! We hope our line of premium, natural, and plastic-free oral care products gives you a daily dose of inspiration to minimize plastic throughout your life, one swap at a time. Happy Plastic Free July! buy now.
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our top five tips for taking care of your teeth and the planet while traveling
Traveling can be exciting and enlightening, but it can also be hard on your body (even your teeth). When journeying to a new destination, you can typically expect to be thrown out of your routine. Whether you’re traveling by plane, train, or car, you’re limited in terms of what self-care items you can bring along with you...as well as what amenities you have access to throughout your trip. Sure, there are all kinds of travel-sized products out there that you can bring along with you. But are they the best option when it comes to caring for your teeth and the planet? To help answer this question, we’re sharing some of our top tips for taking care of your teeth and the planet next time you travel. From sharing advice to spotlighting our sustainable travel size toothpaste and essentials bundle, we want to help you feel prepared for your next trip, in a way that sustains nature+you. 1: check in on your last check up First things first: when was the last time you went to the dentist? Before you travel, it’s always a good idea to check in with your dentist to make sure you don’t have any serious issues lurking in the background. The last thing you need to worry about as you leave home (aka, the place where your regular dentist exists!) is emergency dental treatment. Once you get a clean bill of health from your dentist, you can travel with peace of mind knowing your pearly whites are in the clear. 2: grab your Davids travel essentials Now that you’ve checked in with your dentist and begun packing for your trip, one of the best things you can do to sustain nature+you is to stock up on our travel size toothpaste. For our friends with sensitive teeth, we recommend our travel size nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste. Why is this one of the best ways to care for your teeth + the planet as you travel? it remineralizes your teeth: with every brushing, our hydroxyapatite toothpaste delivers a nourishing dose of n-Ha particles, which penetrate your enamel to fortify it from the inside out. These nanoparticles plug tiny holes and imperfections in your enamel to protect your tooth’s center nerve from outside attacks (cold food/drinks, bacteria, and more). it prevents dry mouth: let’s face it, for many reasons, it can be way harder to avoid dehydration and dry mouth when you’re traveling. When your mouth is dry, it gives bacteria the upper hand, allowing them to do more damage. To combat this, our travel size toothpaste is formulated with intentional ingredients like xylitol, premium peppermint oils, and vegetable glycerin to stimulate saliva production and moisten your mouth. it’s a zero waste toothpaste: unlike most (if not all) conventional travel size toothpaste out there, our toothpaste comes in a recyclable toothpaste tube. That’s right! Instead of plastic, we package our paste in aluminum, an infinitely recyclable material. Trust us, you won’t find many other travel size self-care products that also work to minimize plastic waste! 3: keep everything clean In addition to our travel size toothpaste, the Davids Essentials Bundle can add even more benefits to your travel routine. Along with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste, the bundle includes our tongue scraper and bamboo toothbrush. When traveling, it can be hard to keep your oral care products on you while also keeping them clean. Keeping these products clean is crucial since you don’t want to introduce new sources of bacteria to your mouth while you travel! You can start by disinfecting the toiletry bag that will be holding the products and washing your tongue scraper with soap after every use. But when it comes to keeping your toothbrush clean as you travel, things can get a little tricky. We recommend keeping it in a clean reusable bag or opting for a brand new bamboo toothbrush. While it’s not ideal to think of a bamboo toothbrush as a “single-use” item, you can find peace knowing it’s biodegradable and compostable. Unlike its plastic counterparts, a bamboo toothbrush can decompose in an industrial compost bin in a matter of weeks. 4: stay hydrated To circle back to the topic of dry mouth, staying hydrated is key when it comes to caring for your teeth while traveling. It’s one of the best ways to ensure your mouth has what it needs to produce an adequate supply of saliva while flushing out lingering debris, bacteria, and residue. To make sure you’re sustaining nature+you, we recommend bringing along a reusable water bottle to refill at rest stops and airports along the way. This way, you can keep up with your water intake without contributing to the billions of plastic water bottles used across the globe each year. 5: bring your own satiating snacks Believe it or not, your snacking habits can play a massive role in your oral health (and your volume of waste) while you travel. Carb-heavy snacks, ranging from potato chips to sugary candy, are the main foods that feed bacteria. When these bacteria feed off sugar deposits, they generate acids that can cause bad breath, sensitivity, gum disease, tooth decay, and beyond. Not to mention, it’s estimated that large airports can generate up to 32,000 tons of waste per year. The snacks and drinks that come in single-use plastic packaging contribute heavily to this number, which is another reason we recommend bringing your own mouth-healthy, sustainable, and satiating snacks along with you the next time you travel. Some of our favorite mouth-healthy snacks include vitamin-D-rich products such as cheese, fibrous fruits and vegetables, healthy nuts and seeds, and lean proteins such as seafood, tofu, and beans. You might be surprised to find that most airports allow you to bring prepped food through security, so be sure to check your local airport’s rules before you head out. travel with care With summer in full swing, we hope you have some fun, relaxing adventures planned! To prepare for your travel days, be sure to check out all of our travel size toothpaste flavors. With our charcoal, peppermint, and hydroxyapatite toothpastes as travel options, stock up to ensure your next travel day sustains nature+you. buy now.
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how often should you whiten your teeth? why PAP teeth whitening has more lenient rules
Your smile is one of the things that shapes your first impression, so we completely understand the desire to make sure it shines bright. We also understand that teeth whitening can be overwhelming. With so many options out there, how do you know where to start? And once you start, how do you know how often to continue your routine? With so many different types of teeth whitening (with very different active ingredients) the truth is, these questions don’t have simple answers. On one hand, you have conventional peroxide-based teeth whitening products that are so harsh, your teeth and gums can feel sensitive after one single use. On the other hand, you have emerging PAP teeth whitening products that take a more natural approach, whitening and remineralizing without releasing any damaging free radicals in the process. These two types of whitening have very different care instructions. And within each type, there are so many different modes and concentrations of each product! No wonder there’s so much confusion about how often you should whiten your teeth. To clear up some confusion, we’re exploring some popular teeth whitening products and how often you should use them. We’re also diving into why these products have such specific guardrails around usage....an important thing to explore for products you might use several times throughout the year! how often should you whiten your teeth with gel? First, it’s important to discuss why there are so many guardrails around teeth whitening, especially with concentrated gels. The majority of teeth whitening gels are formulated with some mix of hydrogen peroxide and/or carbamide peroxide, chemical bleaching agents that release free radicals (damaging atoms) while they work. While these chemicals are very effective at removing stains, they’re also very harsh. If you’ve ever used them, you’re probably familiar with the sensitivity, burning, itching, redness, and even bleeding that often come with them. In order to effectively whiten, the peroxide must penetrate your tooth’s surface and treat stains that exist in the dentin layer (the layer that contains tubules that lead to your tooth’s center nerve). This is why most people feel sensitivity when they whiten, even with perfectly healthy teeth. The burning, redness, and bleeding occur when the peroxide comes in contact with your tender gum tissue, which leads to even more pain and discomfort. These are just a few reasons why teeth whitening with peroxides requires very specific instructions, and we’ve included some general rules of thumb below. at-home gel strips & molded trays: because these formulas are weaker than professional whitenings, many manufacturers will say you can use them for up to 14 consecutive days for 30+ minutes each time. However, if you feel tooth sensitivity, we recommend listening to your body and stopping when you receive signs of discomfort. With these at-home applications, it’s really important to make sure the gel isn’t touching your gums. When you let these chemical formulas marinate on your tender gum tissue, it can cause extreme discomfort. professional gel whitening: your dentist should be able to tell you how often you can receive professional whitening based on the health of your teeth and the strength of your enamel. Generally, professional whitenings should not exceed 1-2 times per year. Remember, the frequency of whitening will always depend on the concentration of the whitening agent (in this case, peroxide), the product’s specific instructions, and your dental health/history. We recommend consulting with your dentist before you start a new whitening routine! PAP teeth whitening PAP teeth whitening is revolutionizing the teeth whitening world. Unlike peroxides, PAP does not release free radicals as it color corrects. On top of this, PAP+ formulas contain hydroxyapatite, a naturally occurring, remineralizing agent that works to strengthen your enamel as it whitens, not damage it like peroxides! This is why many PAP+ whitening products do not cause gum irritation or tooth sensitivity. Just like peroxide-based whitening products, there are many different types of PAP+ whitening products each with their own set of instructions. We’ve summarized a few below. PAP whitening kits: These kits usually come with PAP+ gel, an application tray, and blue light to enhance the product’s penetration. You should notice a whiter smile after 1-2 applications (10 minutes long), but you’ll see that many products are labeled for up to 6 consecutive days of use. PAP whitening strips: you’ll find that many PAP+ whitening strips instruct you to wear them for 30 minutes at a time....as often as you want! You’ll be delighted to find out that these strips don’t burn your gums the way peroxide-based whitening strips do. PAP whitening powder: these powders can be used daily in tandem with your toothpaste for an extra boost of whitening. natural mouthwash: You can also consider adding a natural PAP+ mouthwash to your daily routine to nourish a bright white, healthy smile over time. We recommend a formula that contains PAP, hydroxyapatite, xylitol, and naturally derived mint oils. Speaking of whitening products that are safe for daily use, let's dive into the whitening powers of Davids nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste. natural whitening with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste Always remember, it’s essential to keep up with your regular dental hygiene routine to maintain a bright white smile! You can add our sensitive+whitening hydroxyapatite toothpaste to your daily routine to brighten your smile without worrying about damaging your enamel or causing discomfort in your teeth and gums. In fact, our hydroxyapatite toothpaste works to reverse and prevent tooth sensitivity, remineralizing your enamel from the inside out while correcting stains at the source. Many of our customers report whiter, less sensitive teeth after just a few days of brushing with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste....why not jumpstart your whitening routine in a healthy way? Buy Nano Hydroxyapatite Premium Toothpaste Now.
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