Does Teeth Whitening Toothpaste Work? The Answer May Surprise You

Activated charcoal natural whitening toothpaste displayed next to a broken piece of charcoal, portraying the idea that charcoal toothpaste is harsh and too abrasive

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

Tube of toothpaste with expiration date

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

Newspaper clippings of words associated with PFAS and PFOA including toxic, cancer, and forever chemicals

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 […]

6 Ways to Ease Anxiety Around Going to the Dentist

Nervous girl at 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

Smiling young woman brushes her teeth and looks in the mirror

Blog Summary: Is brushing your teeth twice a day really necessary—or is it just outdated advice?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

Young woman rips open packing tape with her teeth

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)

Woman holds up piece of dental floss getting ready to floss her teeth before brushing

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?

Young black male in a white fitted t-shirt uses an oral rinse as part of his daily morning dental care routine

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 […]

Is Buying a Smart Toothbrush Really Worth It?: A Dentist’s View

Smart toothbrush set against a light blue background

Blog Summary: Thinking about upgrading your toothbrush? A smart toothbrush might be worth it! This blog explores the benefits of smart toothbrushes and how they improve oral hygiene with advanced technology. When it comes to brushing your teeth, won’t any old toothbrush do the job just fine? Maybe not as well as you’d think. The […]

The 10 Most Overlooked Dental Hygiene Tools to Start Using at Home

Top-down photo of various dental hygiene tools for at-home dental care.

Brushing and flossing are essential foundations for improving the health of your teeth, but did you know that they may not be enough for many people? While these two habits are critical, overlooked dental hygiene tools could take your at-home dental care to a new, even healthier level. From gadgets that can help remove stubborn […]