Does Teeth Whitening Toothpaste Work? The Answer May Surprise You
Blog Summary: Whitening toothpaste does work, but not all formulas are created equal, and some may do more harm than good. Traditional whitening agents like peroxide, microbeads, and blue covarine have been clinically shown to lift stains—but they’ve also been shown to increase enamel roughness over time, contributing to cavity development and tooth sensitivity. Charcoal […]
Does Toothpaste Really Expire?: What You Need to Know
Blog Summary: Yes, toothpaste expires—typically after two years—especially fluoride types, which lose their cavity-fighting power over time. Expired toothpaste may still be safe short-term, but it’s less effective and can change in taste, texture, and performance. Unopened toothpaste still expires, though proper storage may extend usability slightly past the date. Replace toothpaste if it’s expired, […]
Fluoride vs. Non-Fluoride & Other Toothpaste Ingredients You Should Also Be Concerned About
Blog Summary: Here’s what you’ll learn in this blog post: Why the fluoride vs. non-fluoride toothpaste debate (and fluoride vs. non-fluoride controversy in general) may not be the only question to ask about your oral health. How some toothpaste and mouthwash ingredients—like PTFE (Teflon), triclosan, and peppermint oil—may pose greater risks than fluoride. A breakdown […]
The Surprising Ways Stress Affects Your Teeth (and What to Do About It)
Blog Summary: Stress and anxiety can trigger bruxism (teeth grinding and jaw clenching), leading to jaw pain, headaches, and damaged teeth. Chronic stress weakens the immune system, increasing the risk of gum disease, cavities, and inflammation. Poor oral hygiene habits and unhealthy diet choices often accompany high-stress periods, compounding dental problems. Other stress-related oral issues […]
Are You Ignoring the Dirtiest Part of Your Mouth?
You brush your teeth twice daily, religiously floss, and use mouthwash, yet something still isn’t right. Maybe you’ve noticed bad breath that won’t go away, or an odd film coating your tongue. While it might not be obvious, the culprit is often hiding in plain sight. The small bumps covering its surface are called papillae, […]
6 Ways to Ease Anxiety Around Going to the Dentist
If just thinking about the dentist makes your palms sweat, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is common and it affects people in different ways. Skipping routine cleanings and minor treatments can lead to bigger, more painful problems down the line. But luckily, there are simple, practical ways to ease your anxiety and help you to […]
Here’s Why It’s Important to Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
Blog Summary: Is brushing your teeth twice a day really necessary—or is it just outdated advice? In this post, I break down the science behind the so-called “brushing teeth twice a day myth” and I explain why dental experts overwhelmingly recommend brushing in the morning and at night. You’ll learn: How Often You Should Brush: […]
7 Bad Dental Habits to Break This Year
Blog Summary: Could your daily routine or habits be secretly damaging your teeth? Whether you’re an aggressive brusher, a nail biter, or someone who loves their coffee and sparkling water a little too much, this guide will walk you through what to avoid—and what to do instead. Key Takeaways: Brushing Too Hard can wear down […]
Should You Floss Before or After Brushing Your Teeth?: The Correct Order (From a Dentist)
Blog Summary: This blog clarifies the optimal order for your oral hygiene routine: flossing before brushing. Floss First: Removes plaque and debris, allowing fluoride toothpaste to be more effective. Scientific Backing: Studies show flossing before brushing reduces plaque and boosts fluoride concentration. Timing Matters: Floss once daily, ideally 30-60 minutes after eating/drinking to protect enamel. […]
Is Oral Rinse the Same as Mouthwash, & Should You Use Either?
Blog Summary: Oral rinse, mouthwash, and mouth rinse—are they all the same? Not exactly. More importantly, should you be using one? It depends! Most commercial mouthwashes contain alcohol and antiseptic ingredients, which can disrupt the oral microbiome and even pose long-term health risks. Meanwhile, oral rinses can vary widely, with some offering benefits like enamel […]
