Got questions? We have the answers!
Q: Is Daniel’s more abrasive than toothpaste?
A: Nope! Actually, Daniel’s is barely more abrasive than water. According to the American Dental Association, on a “relative abrasion” scale of 0-250, baking soda scored 8, while Tom’s of Maine hits 93, Crest Extra Whitening toothpaste weighs in at 130 and Colgate 2-in-1 tartar control/whitening cracks 200. So, Daniel’s is far less abrasive than the competition. The Journal of the American Dental Association helpfully compiled a bunch of reports that leave no doubt that baking soda “dentifrice” is, well, just great!
Q: Does baking soda-based toothpowder work?
A: Yes it does! Numerous exhaustive studies, including this one kindly shared by the US National Institutes of Health, have shown baking soda is highly effective at tackling and preventing both plaque and gingivitis, and also helps restore the natural alkalinity of the mouth, which is extremely beneficial for ensuring oral health.
Q: Is it safe?
A: Sure—but don't take our word for it. The American Dental Association’s got it covered: “Researchers in both clinical and laboratory studies have found these products to be safe, to be low in abrasiveness, to not contribute to root sensitivity, and to be safe for use by patients on low-salt diets.”
Q: Does it matter what kind of toothbrush I use?
A: Nope! Although we highly recommend using an electric toothbrush as they are soooo much more effective than manual ones, Daniel’s works just as well with any brush. Don’t forget to brush for two minutes, though—that’s a great way to ensure a clean healthy mouth. And if two minutes seems too long, check out our special two-minute meditations, designed specifically to pair with your evening or morning brushing. Ommmm!
Q: How long does a jar of toothpowder last?
A: Daniel’s comes in a 2oz jar—enough for 120 brushings with a typical electric toothbrush or about 60 with a conventional toothbrush, even if you like to load up your toothbrush. (Did you spot the subtle plug for electric brushes there? Yup—you could save money in the long run!)
Q: What about the ‘dipping’ part? Is it safe to keep dipping your brush in Daniel’s, day after day?
A: Yes. Both tea tree oil and baking soda have natural antibacterial properties so there’s no chance anything icky will happen. Dip, dip and dip again—your teeth will thank you for it!
Q: Is regular toothpaste actually bad for me?
A: Well, we don’t want to get into a flame war, but if you read up on parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate (also used in household cleaning products), fluoride, sorbitol, saccharine, carrageenan and triclosan, you might choose to use an all-natural, toxic-chemical-free dental-care product instead. Just sayin’.
Q: Will I like it?
A: It’s refreshingly different. You'll (probably) love it!
Q: Got any more helpful tips for sprucing up my pearly whites?
A: Why yes, we do! Don’t forget to keep your toothbush in good condition. Researchers in the Netherlands found that worn toothbrushes—particularly where the bristles have splayed beyond the edge of the brush—were significantly less effective than ones that were new or only slightly worn. If your bristles are splaying, get a new brush—and maybe ease up on the elbow grease and invest in some Daniel’s to do the work for you ;-)