Toolbox: Open Wide
Give your health a boost by fine-tuning your oral and dental hygiene with these picks from S&H.
The decidedly futuristic-sounding ionic toothbrush has been shown in studies to reduce plaque, reportedly by temporarily changing the polarity of your teeth so they repel it. ($26.95) drtungs.com
Made of biodegradable silk and cleverly packaged, the eco-awesome floss is every tree hugger’s clean teeth dream. ($4.95) woobamboo.com
These vibrantly flavored toothpicks will help you clean your teeth on the go, plus they are made in America from sustainably harvested birch trees. ($2.50) preserveproducts.com
Start your day with Brushing Rinse and you’ll be spitting potentially harmful bacteria down the drain instead of swallowing it. ($11.47)essentialoxygen.com
Use Neem chew sticks to take advantage of the plant’s antibacterial qualities—and to satisfy your oral fixation. ($24.99) neemtreefarms.com
The three types of oil in the Dual Phase Pulling Rinse offer a smooth mouthfeel, and the tea tree and mint oils leave your mouth feeling fresh. ($9.99) desertessence.com
Made from wildcrafted and organic ingredients, the herbal tooth and gum powder is a potent combination that will shake up your brushing routine. ($12.97) holisticdentalstore.com
Get your chew on with Spry green tea gum, sweetened with xylitol, which can prevent bacteria from sticking to your teeth. ($1.25) xlear.com
Infinitely more hi-tech than traditional string flossing, the water flosser can also give your gums a massage. ($89.99) waterpik.com
Ayurveda calls the coating you see on your tongue in the morning ama; remove it efficiently by using the tongue cleaner. ($7.95) banyanbotanicals.com
Free resources
Turn tooth-brushing time into a miniparty by using the Brush DJ app to play your favorite songs and ensure that you are getting your full two minutes in. brushdj.com
On the first Friday of October—this year it’s October 6—celebrate World Smile Day, which honors Harvey Ball, who created the iconic Smiley Face in 1963. This little-known day (which has been celebrated annually since 1999) gives you a chance to share the gift of your smile with everyone you see. worldsmileday.com
About the Author
Kalia Kelmenson is the creator of The Salt in Us where she helps water-loving women harvest the wisdom of their grief and pain so they can find freedom and flow in their life. She explores science and spirit at the intersection of mind-body medicine.
