The 5,000-year-old Toothpaste Experiment
How it all began
When you think of toothpaste flavors, you automatically think of the intense flavor of mint, right? However, this wasn’t the case 5,000 years ago, when people first started using a form of toothpaste and getting creative with it. The first experimental toothpaste contained charcoal, oyster shells, crushed bones, bark, volcanic rocks and more and was used by ancient Greeks, Romans, Indians, and Chinese. We have ancient Egyptians to thank for thinking of using mint in their toothpaste. According to historical records, the Pharaohs and the wealthy class of ancient Egypt were particularly attentive to their oral health, so they experimented with a paste made of a mixture of herbs, dried flowers, and spices. Ever since mint was the king of fighting bad breath and it rightfully dominated the oral care sector.
Why mint though?
Mint has been known for its medicinal properties and its scent since ancient times. For example, ancient Greeks primarily used it as a room freshener and consumed it to cure digestion issues. Later in the Medieval times, mint leaves became more popular as a breath freshener to fight halitosis, alongside other fragrant herbs and spices such as parsley, cinnamon, sage, clove, cardamom and rosemary.
In the late 19th century, mint found its way to the modern toothpaste, and it has been an essential ingredient ever since thanks to its strong flavor. People have associated it with clean and fresh breath so it became the go-to oral care product worldwide, representing nowadays a multi-billion dollar industry.
New flavors of toothpaste on the horizon
While minty toothpastes and other dental care products, in general, hold the biggest market share, it doesn’t mean that it’s everyone’s first choice, mainly for young children. It is very typical for a kid to resist teeth brushing, mostly because they find it tedious and the mint flavor can be too intense or spicy for them. Therefore, milder flavors such as bubblegum, orange mango, watermelon, apple, blueberry, Tutti Frutti, and more are beloved and in high demand among younger consumers.
The need for a variety of flavors led companies to get innovative and offer a lot of bizarre and unexpected toothpaste flavors. One flavor that became a quick success among kids was the mint chocolate flavor, introduced a few years ago. The marketing strategy for such a product depended on entirely different purposes, selling an experience rather than a science-based oral care product. What followed after the launch of chocolate-flavored toothpaste was an array of bizarre flavor options such as whiskey, cookies, licorice, coffee, bacon, curry, honey, cupcake, coke, and even champagne!
Latest Trends
According to statistics, the global market for toothpaste and other dental care products has benefited quite a lot from the pandemic and is estimated to reach 22 billion US Dollars in revenue by 2027. The annual growth rate of the global population, the increasing awareness regarding oral health and proper hygiene, and the entrance of new and natural toothpaste flavors and formulas at reasonable costs are three of the main factors which shape consumer trends.
The global interest in sustainable and biodegradable packaging materials and vegan and natural ingredients in dental care products is growing at a rate that companies cannot ignore. It created a significant opportunity for brands in the industry to offer organic toothpastes whose active ingredients consist of eucalyptus oil, aloe vera, myrrh, and other plant extracts and target health-conscious consumers.
New category takes over?
A more “natural-sounding” and botanical flavor is increasingly more appealing to consumers, especially considering the long list of incomprehensible and straight out of a lab label mainstream brands use.
Evidently, many existing companies hopped on the trend and a lot more new ones recently emerged to satisfy this niche. Each company capitalized on a unique feature and took notice of the environmental impact in order to beat the competition.
If you were to Google “natural toothpaste” right now, you would get too many results, with slightly differentiated descriptions. So, how would you possibly know which one delivers what it claims? Keep in mind that a lot more money is spent now towards marketing a product rather than funding the actual science behind it.
While both established and upcoming companies get behind the trendy cosmetic “oral care” movement, being supported by beauty and wellness influencers, the focus remains on the attractive packaging and buzz on social media, to justify the premium price that is at least 5-10 times higher than the usual.
Therefore, the responsibility lies on all of us to be well-rounded regarding the hygiene products we use every day. Our lifestyle choices can have a major impact on our overall well being so we need to act accordingly.
References:
https://www.perfumerflavorist.com/flavor/application/mint/15778087.html https://www.citydentists.co.nz/dental-blog/dental-treatment/what-are-the-most-common-toothpaste-flavours/
https://www.speareducation.com/spear-review/2012/11/a-brief-history-of-toothpaste
https://mailchimp.com/courier/article/rise-natural-toothpaste/
Your Quintessential Guide To Preventing The 5 Most Common Dental Problems - Naturally
A healthy smile is a happy smile! But it’s not just the aesthetics that matter. Your oral health can be a good indicator of your overall health. Believe it or not - recurring and chronic dental problems can result in much more than just a less-than-perfect smile.
Your mouth is a window to your health - and the sooner you take that seriously the better. Just think about it: if you can’t chew properly or have unwanted bacteria lingering in your gums causing pain and swelling, that can’t be good for your digestive tract or immune system either.
People often take their oral health for granted and don’t appreciate it until it already starts to crumble. The first and the most important thing is being aware of what might happen and ways to prevent it - preferably naturally. Why naturally? Because even though the use of harsh chemicals may mitigate the impending infection, they often come with a trade-off.
In this article, we will be discussing the 5 most common dental diseases and steps you can take right away to prevent them naturally.
Top 5 Most Common Dental Problems
1. Tooth decay (dental caries or cavities)
Tooth decay or caries is one of the most common dental problems and causes of the infamous toothache that everyone has experienced at least once in their lifetime (if they’re lucky). Cavity is caused by bacteria that reside on the surface of your teeth and produce acids that eat away at the enamel. This acid is a byproduct of the bacteria digesting the sugars that we eat.
So, what is the most important thing to do to prevent tooth decay?
- Reduce the amount of tooth decay is to avoid eating foods rich in sugars
- Floss each evening and never go to bed without brushing your teeth
- Invest in quality organic anti-caries oral care products that are sparing the natural mouth flora
2. Periodontitis (periodontal disease)
The main early symptom of periodontitis is inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). The symptoms of the disease appear slowly and may be mild to begin with. Typical symptoms include: red, swollen or bleeding gums, bad breath (halitosis), tooth sensitivity and loose teeth.
It is important to note that most people do not experience any of these symptoms until the disease is at an advanced stage, which makes it that much harder to self-diagnose. However, it is important to keep in mind that periodontitis can progress rapidly if left untreated.
Aside from tooth loss, studies suggest that periodontitis correlates with a number of other chronic diseases, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory diseases.
Risk factors that can increase your risk of periodontal disease include: genetics, age, diet, and smoking. If you are at increased risk or are already experiencing some of the early signs consult your dental professional.
The solution? Some of the natural remedies for keeping your gums healthy indluce: oil pulling (coconut oil), using eucalyptus oil, peppermint essential oil, green tea, and aloe vera.
However, while bacteria-fighting mouthwash and flossing are important parts of the oral hygiene routine, you shouldn't neglect your regular dental checkups. The dentist will examine your teeth and gums for any signs of periodontitis and may also take X-rays to diagnose any signs of gum disease or cavities.
3. Gingivitis
Gingivitis, the mildest form of periodontal disease, is a reversible condition if caught in its early stages. Left untreated, it can lead to more serious conditions, like periodontitis and dental cavities. Gingivitis occurs when bacteria in the mouth cause inflammation of the gums. The inflammation may make the gums red, swollen, and painful. Eventually, if the gums do not heal properly, they will pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that collect plaque and tartar.
The solution? Again - impeccable dental hygiene: using specialized toothpaste, flossing, using interdental brushes for bigger interdental areas, and rinsing. Regular checkups and professional teeth cleaning - prophylaxis - when needed. When you have your teeth cleaned, the dentist will often perform a radiographic exam, which can often detect early signs of serious health problems. Aside from that - regular brushing and flossing, quitting smoking if you do, incorporating a healthy diet regime, and staying fit can definitely help. The only way to know if you have gingivitis or periodontitis is to see a dentist or oral health specialist.
4. Tooth sensitivity
Sensitive teeth are a common problem that can happen to anyone. Dentists estimate that more than 40 million Americans experience some type of tooth sensitivity to hot or cold and that it's the No. 1 complaint of patients in dental offices. The culprit is often worn tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots. When enamel wears down, the sensitive nerve inside the tooth comes into contact with hot or cold substances in the mouth. If the nerve is exposed, hot or cold can irritate the nerve, causing pain.
The solution? Organic sensitive gum toothpastes, oil pulling, and using only soft bristle toothbrushes. Aside from that - if the problem persists, make sure you visit your oral care professional.
5. Bad breath
Last but not least - aside from being unpleasant, bad breath, or also called halitosis, can also be a sign of another oral health condition. Bad breath can be a symptom of non-oral diseases like stomach problems, sinus and tonsil infections, diabetes, and others. A build-up of debris and plaque on your tongue, gums, or cavities is a breeding ground for nasty bacteria that can create a disbalance in your mouth flora which is not only unappealing but also potentially dangerous.
How to get rid of bad breath naturally? Brush and floss more often, stop smoking if you do, keep your gums in check, and consume less sugar. Also, using naturally derived dental toothpaste and floss will help you restore the balance of the good and bad bacteria which may be responsible for the unpleasant smell in the first place.
Dental problems are often painful and uncomfortable, and they can also be expensive. The good news is: they can and should be prevented whenever possible. In other words, your oral health is more than just a cosmetic issue. While poor tooth and gum health perhaps can't cause any of the chronic diseases, it's been shown to make you more susceptible to them. The takeaway is - take care of your teeth and gums naturally and your body will thank you for it!
Toothpaste Market Statistics: Types, Flavors and More
Today, we are faced with a plethora of choices when it comes to toothpaste. There's a wide range of options available, including white, black, herbal, kids' toothpaste, or "gum care" toothpaste. Many brands are still creating toothpastes with fluoride and other commonly used chemical ingredients, while others have introduced fluoride-free varieties to promote natural dental health.
In this article, we will be discussing some interesting statistics regarding toothpaste production, distribution, and consumption. We will also shed light on some interesting global facts about toothpastes in general, the Covid-19 consequences in the toothpaste making and selling industry, as well as the growing sensitivities when it comes to toothpastes.
Global stats
The global toothpaste market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period (2021 - 2026).
The toothpaste market has been expanding at a significant pace over the past few years. In terms of market size, this growth is mainly attributed to increasing disposable incomes and the increase in the number of people with dental problems in the Western world. The global toothpaste market is a large one that includes many players, from multinational giants Colgate and Bayer to local companies.
If we look at the stats from Amazon online store, 4 best sellers in 2021 are as follows:
- Colgate
- Crest
- Tom’s of Maine
- Sensodyne
Global toothpaste market was worth $17.75 billion in 2019 and it is predicted to rise to $21.99 billion by 2027. Consumers in developed countries are currently spending more on toothpaste than ever before, thanks to a variety of competitive toothpaste brands that are available for purchase in both retail and online stores across the world.
The biggest toothpaste brands include:
- Colgate
- Sensodyne Toothpastes
- Crest Toothpastes
- Aquafresh Toothpastes
- Close up Toothpaste
- Pepsodent Toothpastes
- Patanjali
Let’s take a further look at some stats and facts about different tendencies, flavors, packaging, and toothpaste brands that we found particularly interesting:
Shift Towards Anti-Cavity and Vegan Toothpaste
Because of the increased sugar consumption, busy lifestyle, as well as consumption of alcohol and tobacco there has been a growing demand for anticavity toothpastes. As the global diet gets sweeter and ‘faster’, dental problems are becoming more common. Owing to this, there is a growing need for quality toothpastes and ones that can have a sugar neutralizing effect to help prevent caries.
Aside from this, using animals for cosmetic testing purposes is now generally avoided by many companies. Also, since the vegan and vegetarian movement is gaining more and more momentum, to accommodate the growing population, many foods as well as personal care products are now veganized, including toothpastes.
Mint, remains the most popular flavor, but new flavors are gaining momentum as well
Mint is still the most common toothpaste flavor in the world. Mint-flavored toothpaste became insanely popular in the US back in the early 1900s, when it was first introduced for Pepsodent toothpaste. Because it is an irritant, mint’s tingling property was first marketed as a sign the toothpaste was ‘working’, therefore equating the tingling of mint with cleanliness.
Mint has probably the most refreshing clean scent of all flavors. Given that fresh breath is a key concern for many when it comes to oral care products, it is not surprising that it is still the most popular choice globally. With that in mind, as far as flavors go (agents added to create the flavor), the most common ones used are spearmint and wintergreen.
In case you don’t like any type of strong flavoring or simply prefer non-mint varieties, you’d be interested to know that Tom’s Maine toothpaste is one of the most popular mint-less toothpastes, containing fennel oil and other natural flavors.
Global Toothpaste Stats by Type
According to Fortune Business Insights, one of the leading publishers of market research reports, toothpaste market can be segmented into teeth whitening, herbal, sensitive teeth, and other toothpastes, with teeth whitening taking up 34.45% of the global market share in 2019.
Source: Fortune Business Insights
Covid implications
Because of the strict Covid-19 regulations imposed by country governments all over the world, the supply chain of many companies has been disrupted. Needless to say, the pandemic has affected the toothpaste market as well. To ensure they comply with the newly set regulations and social distancing rules, many producers were forced to either reduce their workload or even completely shut down their plants.
In addition to that, it has been shown that people who have been affected by the Covid-19 virus are often more susceptible to suffering from dental problems as well - one more reason why people are now looking for quality toothpastes more than ever before.
The Growing Interest in Herbal Oral Care Products
The growing fluoride sensitivity or dental fluorosis, especially noticeable among toddlers, is now encouraging companies to produce more natural toothpastes. On top of that, as tooth sensitivity is now becoming more common, producers are now faced with an ever-increasing demand for toothpaste with potassium nitrate as opposed to using stannous fluoride.
Takeaway
Just like any other, the toothpaste industry is constantly changing. Being attentive and listening to the consumers’ needs is the sure way to stay top of mind. According to what we’ve seen so far, people are becoming more and more aware of the different types of toothpaste. The reason for this is mostly because modern lifestyle and excessive sugar consumption tend to cause tooth decay and gum diseases, which call for more potent and specific products. In addition to that, in the light of the recent pandemic, animal rights movement, awareness of chemical ingredients used as well as growing sensitivities, consumers are now turning to more ethically and naturally derived alternatives.
References:
https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/98422/global-toothpaste-industry.html
The new way of brushing - The Premium Toothbrushes from Nordics
Nordics is transforming the way brushing is done! Continuously bringing alternative that matters, this time we changed the game. Premium hygiene, stealth oral health, extraordinary experience for your senses every evening and each morning, and saving our planet from plastic pollution - we did it all!
We’ve written dozens of lines about the importance of oral health and the urgency of making a change for our nature. We don’t just raise awareness but also design useful, affordable tools for every household and every hand. This is how each Nordics product is born. We are extra proud of our Premium toothbrushes. See what stands inside the heart of the change:
1. The astonishing number of 6580 high-quality ultra-soft filaments make the cleaning surface of 3 standard toothbrushes. Each of these filaments is polished with a diamond disk during production so the fibers' ends are sealed for microorganisms and erosion. This technology increases the cost of the toothbrush, thus few manufacturers choose to include polishing in their process. The relief of our teeth looks like the Himalayas - peaks and falls, angles, sharp edges. That is why it is crucial to have flexible and agile filaments that touch every point of our tooth enamel. Nordics premium brushes dense heads sweep away plaque and food residues. Brushing techniques are a very important part of the final result as well.
2. The handle is made of the bioplastic PLA - polylactic acid, a form of bioplastic that is made of renewable sources - fermented plant starch. That way petrol is never used for the production of these toothbrushes. They are 100% recyclable but also PLA production helps decrease the CO2 in the atmosphere. Isn’t that just perfect?
3. Reduced weight of the toothbrush handle - we’re saving from the production material by designing a reliable hollow structure of the handle for light and free movements of the hand. Nordics is driven by the minimalistic principle “Use exactly what you need - never more, never less”. We’ve invested efforts into the brush’s head - where it is essential to increase the cleaning power. Let’s not forget that many illnesses of the body start from the mouth.
4. The packaging is made of 100% recycled paper - staying true to our brand essence, we created a secure hygienic package that is made entirely of recycled materials. We consider this to be the bare minimum for a product with a green concept.
5. Soft, massaging bristles - statistics send a clear message that somehow remains aside from the hot topic in the industry. Nearly half (46%) of all adults aged 30 years or older show signs of gum disease and toothbrushes with soft bristles not only form a substantial share of the market but have a steady positive trend. This is by no chance. Actually soft filaments prevent the gums injury from excessive pressure while brushing – a habit a lot of us unwillingly are doing. Dentists recommend soft toothbrushes as an effective way to clean off plaque and keep the gum line safe. Nordics Premium toothbrushes proportionally distribute the pressure during brushing thus preventing irritation or gumline retrocession. Furthermore, the 6580 soft filaments gently massage the gum tissue and stimulate the blood circulation.
6. Fun and playful colors - last but not least we chose the most engaging colors that break the stereotype of brushing being an annoying chorus. Brushing can be beneficial AND fun. Enjoy!
Toothbrushes will always be the main dental cleaning tool. They have been existing in different forms since ancient times and long before forms of toothpaste were introduced into brushing. One of Nordics’ goals is to introduce high-quality, easily-accessible, and eco-friendly dental care for every consumer. We took another step in achieving that goal by introducing our premium toothbrushes.
Sustainable Oral Care: Why it Matters
Did you know that the average person uses around 300 toothbrushes in their lifetime? That’s a lot of plastic that ends up in landfills! Not only does this create pollution, but all that plastic can take centuries to decompose. By using sustainable oral care products and practices, we can reduce the amount of waste we produce and help protect the environment.
Oral care is something that often gets taken for granted. We brush and floss our teeth without thinking too much about it. But what if we told you that the way you care for your teeth can have a huge impact on the environment?
It's true. The methods we use to clean our teeth every day can be harmful to the planet, and even dangerous for our own health. That's why it's important to switch to sustainable oral care practices that are gentle on the earth and good for our bodies.
What is Sustainable Oral Care?
First of all, let’s answer this basic question. Sustainable oral care is a term used to describe practices and products that are gentle on the environment. This mainly includes:
- choosing natural ingredients over harsh chemicals,
- recycling and reusing products whenever possible,
- avoiding disposable items,
- saving water while brushing,
- using biodegradable dental products
There are a few reasons why sustainable oral care is so important. For one, the dental care products we use daily can be harmful to the environment. Many conventional toothpastes and mouthwashes contain harsh chemicals that can pollute water supplies and damage ecosystems.
What's more, many of these chemicals are also toxic to humans. They can cause everything from skin irritations to severe health problems, such as mouth ulcers, stomach problems, and more. So it's important to choose products that are beneficial to both the earth and our bodies.
Sustainable Oral care products
When choosing a dental care product, we must know what’s included in them and the potential harm it could do to our health and our planet. A lot of the dental care brands use inorganic and chemical materials which are not eco-friendly, claiming they’re superior in terms of protection and effectiveness. However, there are various products available in the market which bring the desired results, that are aligned with sustainable techniques.
Here are a few eco-friendly dental care products you can start using today:
- Bamboo toothbrush. You can safely switch your plastic toothbrush with an eco-friendly one made of bamboo. This material is not wasteful, while plastic toothbrushes often end up in landfills, increasing the pollution levels. Bamboo is grown quickly without any chemicals and can make a sturdy toothbrush handle.
- Organic Toothpaste. People often associate organic and natural toothpaste with ineffective teeth brushing and not a fresh breath. That’s a common misconception which deters people’s attention from the toxic chemicals in the typical toothpastes. Ingredients such as Triclosan, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Parabens, and artificial coloring can be very harmful to your health because your oral cavity absorbs them into your bloodstream. Besides the harmful effect on our health, most toothpaste tubes are lined with materials, which cannot be recycled or reused. Investing in high-quality natural toothpaste can save you from health scares and save the planet from excessive chemical use.
- Eco-friendly dental floss. Another integral element of your daily routine, dental floss, actually includes materials that cannot be recycled. So, similarly to toothbrushes and toothpaste tubes, they end up in landfills, taking hundreds of years to break down.
Thankfully, there are many sustainable oral care products available that can help us keep our mouths healthy without harming the environment. These products often use natural ingredients like tea tree oil and essential oils, which offer sufficient protection to our teeth and gums and are also biodegradable. They also come in packaging made from renewable materials like paper or bamboo, which can be easily recycled and reused.
Takeaway
Making small changes like these can have a big impact on the environment and help us take better care of our teeth and gums. So why not give sustainable oral care a try today? You may be surprised at just how easy it is!
Find out how Nordics can help you change your daily dental care habits here.
The Cost of Straight Teeth: Braces
What are tooth braces?
Dental braces or tooth braces are corrective orthodontic tools used for teeth straightening and the correct jaw alignment. Orthodontists place metallic squares called brackets on the outer surface of the teeth and a flexible piece of wire, which sits on top of the brackets, and its sides are screwed on bands, which fit around the wisdom teeth.
Braces are used to fix issues such as crowding, crooked teeth, and misaligned bite, either overbite or underbite. This treatment is more common among teenagers, but adults can also get braces to perfect their smiles.
The Evolution of Braces
Straight teeth have long been considered to be attractive and a sign of good health. Braces may seem a modern dental procedure, but there is evidence of ancient civilizations using a form of dental braces. Some of them were used to preserve the straight teeth of the deceased to the afterlife. Others designed a basic version of braces to fix the crooked teeth of the living. The materials differed between civilizations, but the most common were gold, metal, and or catgut. The evolution of orthodontics was determined by the following cultures.
- Ancient Egyptians used metal posts attached to a cord made of the animal intestine and placed them on the teeth of the dead. This technique is very similar to the modern one, as the attached cord functioned as an arch and applied the necessary pressure to fix the misalignment. Based on the culture and their beliefs about the afterlife, it was more important for them to provide the best care possible for their dead than the living.
- Ancient Romans also played a great part in the history of orthodontics . Archeologists have discovered Roman tombs with evidence of teeth braces, which were almost identical to the traditional ones used nowadays. These braces were made of gold and were fitted along the teeth. Another discovery we owe to Romans is the fact that the braces are the most effective in earlier ages. In fact, ancient Greek medical documents by Hippocrates reveal that crowded teeth or other structural dental issues led to “headaches and ottorhea or ear discharge”
- The Etruscans, an ancient civilization who lived in central Italy in the 6th century BC, used a type of gold mouth guard, similar to a modern dental retainer. Similar to the ancient Egyptian tradition, they were interested in preserving the straight teeth of the dead in the afterlife.
The French had significantly contributed to the field of dentistry in the 18th century, creating custom mouthguards and overcrowding treatments. A century later, in 1819, Christophe-Francois Delabarre invented the precursor of the modern dental braces, by designing a woven wire which was fitted over the upper and lower row of the teeth, and over time it would fix teeth misalignment.
Types of dental braces/ brackets
A lot has changed in orthodontic technology in just the last decade. The unattractive mouthful of metal wires is now in the past and new, more discreet tooth braces are available. The five types of orthodontic braces are:
- The metal braces which are the traditional and most used ones. They include brackets on the front of the teeth and bands fitted in the back teeth, to support the flexible wire arch, which applies pressure to fix crooked teeth.
- The ceramic braces which are the traditional braces with a tooth-colored ceramic layer. They are more discreet and appealing than the metal ones and are made with stainless steel, gold, and clear materials.
- The lingual braces comprise brackets placed behind the teeth, facing the tongue and they have the same function and look as the traditional ones.
- The self-ligating braces are a more expensive version of the traditional ones because they replaced the bands with clips to hold the wire in place. They provide less friction on the braces, more control and precision on the alignment and the teeth brushing and cleaning are easier to do.
- The Invisalign, which is considered a type of brace, even though there are no brackets or wires. Instead, it is a clear plastic aligner that is fitted perfectly over the teeth and can be replaced once or twice a month. The patients prefer them because they do not experience much difficulty in drinking and eating but they are considerably more costly than the other types. They are recommended for minor to moderate orthodontic issues in teenagers and adults.
The Cost of Dental Braces
The cost of tooth braces varies from country to country. An orthodontic treatment is not always covered by medical insurance companies and its cost can be quite high. In the US, over 4 million people wear braces and 25% of them are adults. As a rough estimate, braces can cost between $3,000 and $10,000 in the USA, depending on the duration of the treatment and the type of braces.
| Dental braces types | Price range in the US |
| Metal braces | $3,000- $7,000 |
| Ceramic braces | $4,000- $8,000 |
| Lingual braces | $8,000- $10,000 |
| Self-ligating braces | $3,000- $7,000 |
| Invisalign braces | $4,000 - $7,400 |
There are some cases where medical insurance can cover part of the cost for teenagers when the treatment is deemed as a medical necessity. The duration of the treatment is between 1 and 3 years and the visit to the orthodontists’ office can be a painful and uncomfortable experience.
Conclusion
According to statistics, the global orthodontics industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7% until 2030 mainly due to the surge of tooth and jaw misalignment cases and the continuing demand for dental aesthetics. The children segment will continue to dominate the major market share but the adult segment will also develop significantly. As for the market share per region, North America will likely occupy the largest market share, followed by the European market. The Asia Pacific will be the fastest-growing market in the next decade due to the rise of dental issues, the geriatric population, and the advances in dental technology.
Orthodontic treatment may be a painful experience, but it an essential one to fix dental irregularities and prevent other health complications.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/braces-and-retainers#1
https://www.blueridgeorthodontics.com/surprising-history-braces/
https://orthodonticsaustralia.org.au/the-history-of-orthodontics-from-ancient-braces-to-invisalign/
https://www.humana.com/dental-insurance/dental-braces
https://www.healthline.com/health/average-cost-of-braces
The History of Dental Care Products
Dental Care Throughout History
There are so many available types of dental care products today. Herbal, fluoridated, sensitivity, tartar control and children’s toothpaste, manual, electric, eco-friendly toothbrushes and so many other types of tools are available to most developed and developing countries. However, this array of oral care products has only been around since the 1950s. So how did the dental hygiene practices look before then?
Even though past generations did not have the products which exist now, oral hygiene has been a priority to wellbeing since ancient times. Historical documents from 5,000 BCE reveal that humans firmly believed that worms were the primary reason for cavities, and toothpicks were used to remove food residue in Egypt and Mesopotamia. In 1700 BCE, Ebers Papyrus, an Egyptian text, reveals information about tooth diseases and various remedies for toothache.
In Ancient Greece, Asclepius, the God of Medicine and healing, was believed to be one of the first advocates of dental health around 1200 BCE. This is why the official symbol of dentistry includes a snake, a symbol of rebirth for ancient Greeks, and two Greek letters, “Δέλτα” and “Όμικρον”, depicted as the triangle and the circle respectively. Later, Aristotle and Hippocrates wrote more detailed texts about tooth decay treatments, teeth extraction with forceps, and stabilization techniques for loose teeth and fractured jaw bones using wires, very similar to the modern approach. Around the 2nd century BC, an ancient civilization in Italy, called the Etruscans, practiced dental prosthetics and performed dental restorations using gold.
The First Toothpaste
Considering the mysterious concoctions ancient civilizations came up with to clean their teeth, we have to thank the Egyptians for utilizing mint and adding it to their kind of toothpaste. The Greeks’ and Romans’ first form of dental cream was made of broken bones, myrrh, ash, eggshells, volcanic rocks, oxen hooves, and charcoal. Asian civilizations have added herbs and spices, such as ginseng and salt, to improve their taste and cleansing properties. The abrasive mixture was believed to successfully clean the surface of the teeth and remove food residue.
The ancient Egyptian formula of the dental cream comprised a mix of rock salt, mint, dried iris flowers, and pepper. Despite causing bleeding gums, researchers claim it was perhaps the most effective form of toothpaste compared to its successors, sharing a lot of similarities with its modern version.
In the late 18th century, people experimented with a powder mostly made of burnt bread to clean their teeth. A few decades later, a dentist called Peabody was the first to add soap to the toothpaste for better oral hygiene and in 1850, John Harris added chalk to the mixture. In 1873, the first commercially used toothpaste with a pleasant smell and texture was launched by Colgate and it was sold in jars. Two decades later, Dr. Washington Sheffield started selling toothpaste in collapsible tubes for sanitary purposes, so that people could use it safely, without risking their own hygiene.
In the 20th century, dental experts added fluoride to toothpaste, as they had discovered how effective it was against dental cavities. After World War II, toothpaste manufacturers replaced the soap with other emulsifying agents to produce a smoother result. In the following decades, herbal, fluoride-free, whitening, and even edible toothpastes hit the market.
The First Toothbrush
Thanks to technological advancements, the oral hygiene industry has expanded to innovative dental care products such as the electric toothbrush. The first-ever form of toothbrush was nothing but a wooden, pencil-sized stick. Historians claim that the Babylonians and Egyptians were the first ones to use frayed twigs to clean their teeth as early as 3500 BCE. They chewed on one side of the stick to soften it up and resemble a brush, and they kept the other end sharp, like a toothpick.
In the 15th century, the Chinese created the first toothbrush with bristles by gluing pig’s hairs to a bamboo stick or carved bones. At the time, Europeans used cloths and sponges to remove and polish their teeth. When the toothbrush designed in China was taken to Europe, the harsh pig’s hair was replaced by horsehair or feathers for a softer “brush”.
The “founder” of the toothbrush was William Addis from England, who invented the first mass-produced toothbrush in 1780. While in prison, he carved a cattle bone for a handle and he used batches of wild pig’s hair for the brush part. His prototype was then given to manufacturers and it was available across the country. During World War I, the USA manufactured toothbrushes made of nylon bristles and celluloid handles. This type of material made it easier to sell toothbrushes in more areas around the world and it was the beginning of the manual toothbrush, as we know it. The first electric toothbrush sold in the US was the Broxodent, manufactured by a company named Squibb in the 1960s. More companies optimized this type of product over the next few years.
The First Mouthwash
The origin story of the mouthwash is almost as unorthodox as the one of the toothpaste. There are mentions of it in the literature of a few civilizations, but the most common appears to be the Roman. Historical documents reveal that Romans used imported bottled urine to rinse their mouths in AD 1. Despite it being a quite eccentric choice, ammonia, which is found in high levels in urine, has cleaning and disinfecting properties. It became so popular that the emperor Nero taxed the trade and it was widely used until the 19th century.
Other mouthwash peculiarities throughout history included tortoise blood, white wine, goat’s milk, a mixture of berries, vinegar, and mint leaves, and also cold water. Around the 1500s, people also gargled a solution of mint and vinegar to fight bad breath and clean their teeth. Anton van Leeuwenhoek, also known as the father of modern microbiology, discovered that a mouthwash solution with alcohol or ammonia could effectively kill oral bacteria. Thanks to his discovery, the mouthwash of today ensures not only gum and teeth health but also fresh breath!
The First Dental Floss
The dental floss gained popularity a lot later than the other oral care products. A New Orleans dentist named Dr. Levi Spear Parmly first suggested the use of a silk thread to clean the areas between the teeth in 1815. As the rest of the dental care products became more popular towards the end of the century, that’s when dental floss was patented and available in the market. The silk used in dental floss was the same material used for the stitches but later was replaced for nylon, because of its durability. This improvement also led to the production of waxed floss, which is a stronger, slightly thicker option, ideal for tightly spaced teeth because it's easier to glide between the teeth. Similar to the rest, the variety of dental floss has expanded over the years, taking advantage of new materials and new technological techniques.
Conclusion
History shows that human societies have cared about their oral health for centuries, long before all the different kinds of toothpastes, toothbrushes, and other oral care products. Prehistoric civilizations used no dental tools to clean their teeth, which were mostly healthy thanks to their diet. When the human populations turned to farming, their heavy grain-based diets led to plaque buildup and hence, oral bacteria growth.
It’s important to acknowledge the role of nutrition in our oral health and utilize all the dental care products and treatments which are available to us to lead a healthy life with a bright smile.
SOURCES:
https://www.pacificsciencecenter.org/blog/wellbody-blog/the-evolution-of-oral-hygiene/
https://www.hinsdaledentistry.com/blog/history-of-oral-hygiene/
https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/ada-library/dental-history
https://vitality-dental.co.uk/history-oral-hygiene/
https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/dental-floss-history/
https://www.speareducation.com/spear-review/2012/11/a-brief-history-of-toothpaste
https://www.deltadentalar.com/resources/blog/delta-dental/2019/03/13/history-of-toothpaste
The Power of Charcoal in Cosmetics
Probably everyone has at least heard of a hygiene product containing charcoal. We can see charcoal powder even in the most unusual products like shampoo, mouthwash, or face scrub. About 10 years ago, this was an exotic concept and cosmetics manufacturers weren’t ecstatic about the idea of potentially clogging their machines with black powder and creating a non-stereotypical product that could potentially lay around in their warehouses. A micro-trend was gaining power but was far from the tidal wave it recently became.
What exactly is activated charcoal and how come something so dirty ends up in cleaning products?
Activated and active charcoal are equivalent terms, as are active carbon and active charcoal.
Charcoal is the carbon residue of heated biomatter. It is black and odorless and has a porous structure and microscopic grid that acts as a very fine filter. When the charcoal is activated that means that it is processed to significantly increase the number of pores and the surface area. After activation, the outspread surface of 1 gram of charcoal is 3,000 m2 which makes it ideal for filtering, and absorption, through bonding with different chemical substances. That makes the size of 2,5 Olympic pools.
It is very efficient at capturing large molecules and tannins present in tooth discoloration.
What are the applications of active charcoal?
Carbon in general has such a wide spectrum of usages varying from automobile and space and FMCG industry. Because of its multiple benefits, its application is truly universal.
Activated charcoal is widely used in the beauty, cosmetic and medical industries. It is effective against absorbing toxins in food poisoning; however, it is not effective against alcohol poisoning due to its inability to create a bond with the alcohol molecule. Some of its most practical uses are:
- Filter for industrial and commercial water purification
- Skin cleansing agent by absorbing microparticles as makeup, dirt, or sebum
- Deodorant ingredient absorbing the bad odor
- Dental hygiene and teeth whitening agent
Active Charcoal and Teeth Whitening
Since activated charcoal is not only a great absorbent but also abrasive it greatly serves the purpose of teeth cleaning agent. Plaque is the main reason for dental disease. It is a fine film of bacteria chains and food residuals that is surprisingly challenging to remove. That is why dentists recommend using ultrasonic toothbrushes and using ultrasound themselves to clean off the calcified plaque, called tartar.
Every toothpaste has some kind of abrasive agent. Depending on their hardness the toothpastes have different cleaning efficiency. When integrated into a toothpaste formula, the active charcoal helps cleansing power by scrubbing off plaque and absorbing tannins and other coloring molecules. It has double cleaning power – contributing to the general oral health and to the cosmetic need for a white smile. However, using activated charcoal powder directly on your teeth as abrasive needs to be consulted with your dentist because factors such as gum and enamel condition need to be taken into consideration. Using direct abrasive powder in combination with a toothbrush can be harmful and create an unpleasant feeling and visual effect of black particles stuck between your teeth.
Conclusion
Even though active charcoal is a great way for prophylaxis of dental diseases and teeth discoloration, it cannot make your teeth whiter than their natural shade. Oral care products having this ingredient work on a surface level, as most of the other teeth whitening agents in mass cosmetics.
We, at Nordics, cherish the natural and super-natural powers of active charcoal as it is easy to produce bio ingredients, dissolves perfectly in Nature without polluting it, and serves great for humanity!
The Structure of the Tooth Explained
Did you know adult teeth have a biting force of up to 200lbs? Talk about strong teeth! Humans are all born with 20 baby teeth, which are just below the gumline and emerge after the first 6 months of a baby’s life. Our individual DNA predetermines the time each tooth will emerge and fall out eventually, as well as the time when the adult tooth will grow in to replace it. Only poor oral hygiene and an accident will disrupt this natural process. It’s important to keep in mind that proper dental care is an essential habit that needs to be developed very early on, as it defines the future oral health.
The Structure of the Tooth
What makes the tooth the hardest substance in the body? They comprise 96% minerals, making them harder than bones. There are a lot of different layers of tissue in each tooth, all serving a specific purpose. Let’s take a closer look at the anatomy of the tooth.
The Anatomy of the tooth, Source: https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/picture-of-the-teeth
Teeth are made of the visible part, above the gum line, called the crown, the neck, which is the middle part, and the root, which is not visible and located under the gumline.
The crown consists of 3 parts:
- The anatomical crown. This is the top part of the tooth, which is the most visible part.
- The enamel. This is the substance that covers the surface of the crown and it is responsible for protecting the teeth from toxic bacteria. It is made of an extremely hard mineral such as calcium phosphate, and thanks to it the mouth can withstand the pressure of biting and chewing.
- The dentin or dentine. This is the tissue that makes up for the bulk of the tooth. Similarly, it consists of the same mineral, making it harder than bone but not as hard as enamel. When the dentine is exposed, due to poor dental care, the patient develops high sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks and sweets. Dentine hypersensitivity is one of the biggest concerns in oral health.
The neck, also known as the dental cervix, is the middle part that links the crown and the root. Its main 3 parts are:
- The gums, or the gingiva. This pink, fleshy tissue is attached to the cement of each tooth and the enamel.
- Pulp cavity. This is the space inside the crown that holds the pulp, the nerves, and blood vessels. The upper part of the pulp cavity is the pulp chamber, and the lower part is the root canal, which is found deeper down the roots of the tooth.
- Pulp. This is the soft, gelatinous tissue in the center of the tooth and it consists of 80% water and 20% of inorganic material and cells called odontoblasts. Its main functions include the formation and nutrition of the dentine and the innervation of the tooth.
The root is the deepest structural part of the tooth with several highly important parts. It’s the part that extends to the bone and provides support to the tooth, and it’s approximately 2 times bigger than the crown. Each tooth has one or more roots and the main parts of a root are the following:
- Root canal. As the name suggests, this is the passageway where the pulp is located.
- Cementum or cement. This is the thin layer of a hard dental tissue which covers the anatomical roots of the tooth. Cementum is not as hard as dentine and is made of 45-50% inorganic material such as collagen and proteins and 50-55% water.
- Periodontal ligament (PDL). This is the soft tissue that really holds the tooth and the bone together. It’s made of connective tissue and collagen fibers, and both nerves and blood vessels run through it. Its functions include absorbing the pressure of chewing, biting and grinding and allowing teeth movement in orthodontic treatments. PDLs are also susceptible to periodontal inflammation and are harder to regenerate, so it comes down to proper oral care.
- Nerves and blood vessels. They are both essential to the structure of the teeth, as the blood vessels provide necessary nutrients for the periodontal ligament and the nerves help control the force when chewing and or biting.
- Jaw bone. Also known as the alveolar bone, it provides support to all the teeth. The upper jawbone is fixed and called maxilla and the lower jawbone is movable and called mandible.
The Importance of Proper Dental Care
Each part of the tissues that surround the structure of the tooth plays a very crucial role in oral health. From the enamel to the nerves, each requires proper dental hygiene to stay intact and protect the teeth from bite force, bacteria, and temperature changes.
The crown is mostly made of hard minerals to prevent toxins and bacteria from entering the gums and the bloodstream. The integrity of the neck of the tooth will help protect from gum diseases such as gingivitis, gum bleeding, and inflammation. The root comprises softer tissues, and any damage there is more complicated and risky to be addressed by a dental practitioner.
The quality of the teeth is also defined by DNA, but it comes down to the practice of good dental hygiene from a young age. Brushing your teeth and tongue properly 2-3 times a day with the right toothbrush, using dental floss daily, and using mouthwash for fresh breath do more good than you may think. A solid dental care routine saves you a lot of painful visits to the dentist and a lot of expensive and uncomfortable dental treatments.
Sources:
https://soundviewfamilydental.com/blog/10-fun-facts-about-human-teeth/
https://www.healthline.com/health/tooth-anatomy#structure-and-function
http://www.uky.edu/~brmacp/oralhist/module4/lecture/oh4lect.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537112/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/cementum
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-and-teeth-anatomy/periodontal-ligament-what-is-it
What to Look For In a Toothpaste
Toothpaste is one of the most used items in our personal hygiene. Dental products, as we know them, have not been around until the last couple of centuries. Nowadays, the oral care market offers a wide variety of toothpaste to cover every need and more innovative formulas become available for the consumers.
But have you ever wondered about what’s in the toothpaste tube you use 2 or 3 times a day? You've probably heard that you should be careful with the ingredients in it, but what does that mean? What ingredients should you look for?
Keep reading to learn more about the ingredients in toothpaste and how to pick the one that is best for you.
What to look for in toothpaste
Toothpaste that offers effective dental care and can be safely used for daily use has to contain the following basic ingredients:
#1: Fluoride
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps to protect your teeth from decay. It was first added to toothpaste in Germany in the 1890s. However, it became a staple in 1914, when it became known for its tooth decay prevention qualities. It can be found in both natural and artificial forms and is a key ingredient in other dental products as well. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fluoride helps decrease cavities by up to 40%.
The range of toothpastes available on the market contains different levels of fluoride. If you check the label on the back of your toothpaste tube, you will see that fluoride is measured in parts per million (ppm). Dental professionals consider a range between 1350 to 1500 ppm to be a very effective fluoride amount for adults. If you run the risk of developing tooth decay, your dentist may recommend toothpaste with higher ppm to protect your oral health more effectively. As for children, the dentists recommend:
- Children under the age of 3 can brush their teeth using a smear of toothpaste containing at least 1,000 ppm fluoride.
- Toddlers between the ages of 3 and 6 can brush their teeth using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste containing more than 1,000 ppm fluoride.
There are two types of fluoride you can find in toothpaste:
- Sodium fluoride, which is the most common type and prevents tooth decay
- Stannous fluoride, which prevents gum disease, tooth decay and reduces tooth sensitivity. It can stain the teeth, but scientists have been able to address this issue with different production techniques.
The ADA recommends using fluoride toothpaste in amounts depending on the age and the risk of tooth decay development.
#2: Mild Abrasives
Abrasives are ingredients that help remove plaque and stains from teeth. They come in both natural and synthetic forms and are usually added to toothpaste in small amounts. Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA) is the metric used to determine the abrasiveness of toothpaste. Toothpaste with an RDA level lower than 250 is acceptable and effective to not cause damage to the enamel. Any higher RDA level can lead to enamel erosion, which can lead to teeth sensitivity, discomfort, and gum recession.
Some common abrasives in toothpaste are derived from chalk and silica.
Hydrated Silica is an odorless, tasteless white powder, which depending on the specific formula can also be used as a thickening agent, a mild abrasive for cleaning, or as a whitening agent in toothpaste. It is listed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to be Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS).
Calcium Carbonate is a mild abrasive derived from chalk. It can be safely used to remove plaque buildup in the surface of the teeth effectively.
#3: Humectants
Humectants are the additives that allow the toothpaste to come out smooth and consistent from the tube. Glycerol and Sorbitol are two of the most common ones because they keep the moisture in the toothpaste mixture. Without them, your toothpaste might have a grainy consistency, almost like wet sand, which would not be pleasant at all on the mouth.
#4: Detergents
Detergents are the ingredients used to produce foam when brushing your teeth. One of the most common detergents in toothpaste is sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). However, it is not considered safe for your oral health. Some problems SLS can cause are tissue sloughing, canker sores, dry mouth, and bad breath. This ingredient essentially damages the cells in the inner cheek, causing intense pain and irritation. Since SLS doesn’t have any cleansing properties, SLS-free toothpastes are the safe choice and the recommendation of dental professionals.
#5: Flavorings
Flavors and coloring additives are the elements in a toothpaste that make it more appealing to look at and use day after day.
Toothpastes should not contain sugar because sugar speeds up cavity formation. Instead, sweeteners should be added because they have a nice taste and do not negatively affect the oral cavity. Indeed, certain sweeteners have the extra benefit of contributing to the protection of teeth and gums!
Some additives are sweeteners, but they also have a function in toothpaste. It's possible that the sweetening effect isn't even the most important function of that substance! Sodium saccharin, Sorbitol, and Xylitol are a few examples of commonly used sweeteners.
Conclusion
It is important to look for dental care products that contain safe-to-use ingredients, like Xylitol, and calcium. In addition, it is also important to find a toothpaste that does not contain harmful chemicals like SLS and Parabens. The Nordics oral care products meet all of these criteria and more. With our natural ingredients and lack of harmful chemicals, you can feel good about using our toothpastes for your family. Check out the Nordics oral care products here.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/68/wr/mm6804a3.htm#:~:text=Discussion,for%20dental%20caries%20(1)
10 Steps to a Picture-Perfect Smile!
The foolproof formula to pearly white smile!
Who doesn’t love seeing the bright smiles of Hollywood stars? The perfect smile can do wonders for your confidence and social life. Whether you want to book a job, land that dream promotion or just make a lasting impression on the people around you, a great smile is your secret weapon!
While you might think that having a perfect smile is about getting cosmetic dental procedures such as veneers, crowns, and expensive whitening treatments, the truth is that there are natural solutions you can take advantage of to help you achieve your dream smile. Some of them you can probably already guess, while others may surprise you! Here are 10 tips for a perfect smile:
- Eat healthily. You must have heard from a young age how sugary snacks like candy are the worst enemy for your teeth? Although it is true, foods high in carbohydrates such as pasta and bread can also cause cavities because they stick to the surface of the teeth. Over time, the carbohydrates break down into sugars which are what attract the bacteria buildup in your oral cavity. On the other hand, a diet including vegetables and fruits ensures the necessary daily intake of vitamins and antioxidants for your overall body health. For example, apples are great for your oral health, as they contain natural fluoride, fiber, and water which stimulate gums and saliva production. Greens contain a lot of vitamins and calcium which protect the enamel of the teeth.
- Drink water. Water also works wonders for your dental health! How? It helps remove food residue stuck between your teeth, your tongue or between your inner cheeks and gums. It can also restore your mouth’s pH balance after you consume acidic foods and hydrate it with saliva production, preventing bacteria overgrowth.
- Replace toothbrush 3-4 times a year. Dental professionals recommend a toothbrush replacement every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are no longer nice and straight. The more you use your toothbrush, the less effective it is to scrape away the food residue and bacteria from the oral cavity. Plus, a toothbrush that has been in use for a long period of time is likely to carry bacteria which makes it no longer safe to use.
- Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush. We have to be thankful for the dental care evolution throughout the centuries. Could you imagine if our toothpastes contained crushed bones and oyster shells like the ones our ancestors used did? Abrasive materials and brushing hard do not achieve a more thorough cleaning. On the opposite, that can cause gum bleeding, gum recession, enamel erosion, and tooth sensitivity. That is why dentists suggest gentle brushing with soft-bristled toothbrushes. Our brand new Nordics Premium toothbrush is exactly what you need and you can get it here.
- Have a consistent and proper oral hygiene routine. Establishing the right oral care routine is undoubtedly the most important step towards healthy teeth. If you are looking for excellent results, you should brush your teeth for 2-3 minutes at least twice a day, floss or use interdental brushes at least once a day, and use mouthwash afterward. This is the foolproof method to minimize the risk of plaque buildup, oral infections, and diseases at the comfort of your own home.
- Limit consuming staining drinks & foods. Your habits food- and drink-wise can have an impact on how your teeth look. When it comes to your diet, you must keep in mind that there are a lot of ingredients and drinks we all consume daily that, through their pigments and colorants, have the ability to stain or discolor your denture. You might, therefore, want to limit or even avoid coffee, sodas, tea, red wine, certain dressings and sauces, balsamic vinegar, colored candy, and of course deep-colored fruits like blackberries, red grapes and blueberries, and their juices. Nevertheless, some of the above have proven benefits for your overall health, and some others, like coffee and red wine may be some of our guilty pleasures. Therefore, as it is not possible to totally avoid them, you can consume them as long as you follow the right oral hygiene routine including high-quality whitening toothpaste, as your teeth can easily go back to a more yellow, dull tone even a few months after a professional whitening treatment.
- Use straws (Nordics) If you were looking for additional ways to improve your everyday oral hygiene, you just found a bonus one! Using straws will surprisingly benefit your teeth in the long-run! They prevent contact between the drinks and the tooth surface, saving you from noticeable staining and the potential formation of cavities. Want to walk that extra mile? The Nordics bamboo drinking straws are sustainable, eco- friendly, vegan, cruelty-free and made of 100% natural bamboo stems you can use again and again! No doubt you can have the plus of protecting the planet while protecting your teeth.
- Use a whitening toothpaste (Nordics) Getting tired of trying to have the sterling smile that you have been dreaming of, but not willing to undergo all these expensive and time- consuming professional whitening treatments? Who said that you can’t have equally good results at home? With a little help from the Nordics Organic toothpaste Ultra White with Charcoal and Matcha, including natural ingredients in its high quality formula and ideal for an everyday use, you can keep away all the unwanted staining from food, coffee, smoking or medication, while restoring the sparkle of your enamel, providing your teeth with this gorgeous looking natural white shade.
- Don’t skip your dentist appointments! One of your wisest decisions towards having a beautiful smile is definitely to make your dentist or dental hygienist your friend. Whether you are lucky enough to have a strong dental quality or you have to try a little extra to maintain a good oral health at home, visiting your dentist twice yearly will save you time, money, and keep you from unnecessary situations like root canal surgeries, filling cavities, treating tartar or tooth-decay. During your scheduled routine dental check, a hygienist will provide you with a detailed image of your dental health, useful tips and, more importantly, alert you about any conditions you might be prone to and need to be mindful of.
- Take care of your overall health. Last but not least, even though it is hard for a lot of us to find the connection, many times our mouth works as a mirror for our overall body wellness. Dental conditions may appear in different forms and can stem from other general body conditions and malfunctions, which, if not treated properly and in time, may lead to difficult oral diseases such as tooth decay, gum diseases etc. Stomach ulcers, high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, anemia are only some of the diseases that can severely affect the good health of our oral cavity and disrupt its balance in multiple ways. Keep good track of your body health with the assistance of your general practitioner who will guide you through to build a strong body and ensure strong teeth and gums as a result.
Conclusion
Our products are designed to provide premium dental care to everyone with natural ingredients and a sustainable approach in mind. Completing your dental care routine with nature’s best ingredients and innovative formulas has never been more eco-friendly!
Sources:
https://galleriadentalsmiles.com/5-medical-conditions-that-can-affect-your-oral-health/
How Dental Care is Evolving with the Digital Age
Dentistry has been a critical part of our health for centuries. But with the advancement of technology, it’s evolving in ways we never thought possible. There are now new ways to keep your teeth and gums looking healthy that offer more convenience and comfort than ever before. From simple tools like toothbrushes to sophisticated digital toothpaste applicators, dentistry is becoming more personalized and accessible with every passing day. Here are some ways dental care is evolving with the digital age.
How dental care is evolving with the digital age
In the past, people would visit their dentist to have a toothbrush or toothpaste applied. Today, it’s possible to get a custom-made app for your phone that will clean your teeth automatically.
One of the most popular new innovations in dental care is digital toothpaste applicators. These devices apply specific amounts of toothpaste with a consistent amount of pressure and speed for a consistent brushing experience. They also provide a timer so you know when to move on to another part of your mouth.
If you have braces, there are apps that can clean them for you with just one click! You simply attach your phone onto a holder that clips onto your braces and then select the appropriate mode from the app. It cleans off any food caught in between brackets while avoiding damage from metal bristles.
Even traditional tools like toothbrushes are evolving thanks to technology. There are now brushes on the market that track everything from brush time to where you need more attention, helping you achieve a healthy smile easily!
The Future of Dentistry
Brushing one's teeth is an experience. It's a time to relax, reflect on the day, or just enjoy oneself in general. But in the age of technology, this is changing.
With innovations like Bluetooth toothbrushes and digital toothpaste dispensers, brushing your teeth can be more about efficiency than enjoyment.
The toothbrush industry has been rapidly upgrading its products to make them more convenient for the average consumer. From self-cleaning brushes that recharge when they're finished brushing to electric toothbrushes that are able to brush two times faster than manual ones, there are plenty of ways we can make our oral care routine easier than ever before.
Digital technologies have also made it easier for dentists who want to offer more personalized treatment plans at their offices. With digital x-rays, dental impressions, and panoramic x-rays becoming more popular in the dental world, it's easier than ever for dentists to see your teeth and gums with stunning clarity—and help you better understand how you can enhance your dental care routine.
The Evolving Toothbrush
The toothbrush has been a staple in households for a long time. We use them to keep our teeth and gums healthy, but they've also evolved into something more. Like so many devices nowadays, toothbrushes are getting smarter too.
In the 1980s the first electric toothbrush was released. These days, there are digital ones that track your brushing habits and offer helpful feedback on how well you are doing based on pressure and technique. They can even be paired with an app to show when you need to replace your brush head or repair your handle.
As technology continues to evolve, we'll likely see new innovations that will make brushing even easier and more efficient than ever before!
The Evolving Toothpaste Tube
We’ve all seen toothpaste tubes before, but not like this. One of the newest innovations is a digital tube that allows consumers to choose how much paste they want and dispense it with a click of a button. This offers two benefits: convenience and customization.
The most obvious benefit is the ease of use. The new digital tubes make it easier than ever to grab just the right amount of toothpaste, eliminating the risk of squeezing out more than you need or accidentally using too little. You can choose precisely how much paste you need depending on your brushing habits and dental needs.
The second benefit is customization. With the ability to choose your desired level of thickness, you can create a paste that caters exactly to your specific preferences in terms of thickness and texture. These changes are perfect for people who experience sensitivity in their teeth or gums or who have braces and want to avoid damaging their appliances with excess pressure while brushing.
Conclusion
So, what does all this mean for your dental care? It means that you are now able to take control of your dental health at home. Nordics products are designed with natural ingredients and cutting-edge technology to provide premium dental care at home. Our latest innovative product, the Kids Strawberry Splash Toothpaste contains the processed probiotic SymReboot OC, which sustains the oral cavity’s instinctive defenses and supports the healthy balance of the oral microbiome.
Learn more about how Nordics combines innovation and sustainable techniques to provide affordable and holistic dental protection here.
Sources:
Dental Care Around the World
A healthy mouth equals a healthy body! Good oral health is often linked to overall wellbeing and optimum health. The dental specialists rightfully advocate the importance of proper oral care, because the mouth is the gateway to the rest of the body. An infection in the teeth and or gums, due to poor oral hygiene can compromise more organs such as the lungs, heart, and brain and cause severe and irreversible damage. This is why the presence of oral medical centers plays a significant role in the promotion of proper oral care. However, the people in need of dental treatments are less likely to have access to them for various reasons.
The State of Oral Health Care worldwide
According to the World Health Organization WHO, roughly 15-20% of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 have advanced gum disease, while over 30% of adults worldwide between the ages of 65 and 74 have none of their natural teeth intact. Furthermore, the statistical evidence reveals that 60-90% of children and approximately 100% of adults in the world have dental cavities at least at one point in their lifetime.
Tooth decay is the most commonly diagnosed dental disease in the world, affecting nearly 90% of the population. It's also the most prevalent childhood illness, afflicting more than 70% of school-aged children3. Oral hygiene habits among children from 41 countries demonstrate a variation in brushing frequency between North American and European countries, based on the most recent surveys. Reports by the American Dental Association (ADA) reveal that 78% of adults in the USA brush their teeth twice daily, while in the case of children only 44% of them do. European countries such as Switzerland, Sweden, Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, and Norway have the highest ranking in oral care, and specifically up to 75% of adults brush their teeth twice or more daily. Ranking lower in oral hygiene are countries like Finland, Romania, Greece, Lithuania, Turkey, and Malta, where fewer than 46% of adults take good care of their teeth.
The skyrocketing rise of oral diseases is a major public health threat globally. Fortunately, the Global Oral Health Programme, introduced by WHO, is drawing attention to the importance of oral health around the world. The objective of the program is to identify strategies to help the millions of people who are unable to receive preventative dental care due to a lack of financial resources or access. Several European countries have privatized oral health care services in recent years, making it unaffordable for many. Furthermore, most eastern European countries have stopped providing school dental services, leaving children without access to oral health care. Dealing with oral diseases effectively, to drive these percentages down, will require access to dental care products and dental treatments for everyone.
Oral care in Developed Countries
The United States, Japan, and Canada are the top 3 countries with the highest number of hired dental professionals globally, indicating that developed countries have the best access to oral health care. Income levels play a significant part in determining good oral health. Since many health insurance policies do not cover dental care, middle-class families often struggle to afford the recommended twice-yearly checkups and necessary dental work.
One thing worth noting is that, as research continues to uncover the many hazards associated with gum disease, the number of dental hygienists joining the industry has been increasing in all developed countries over the last decade. Between 1987 and 2006, the number of dental hygienists in Canada grew by 200%, whereas the number of dental hygienists in Italy increased by a stunning 2207%! The Bureau of Labor Statistics in the United States has predicted a 38% increase in job growth in the profession between 2010 and 2020, which is much higher than the average for all occupations. A rise in population, a larger need for preventative dental treatment, and the need to maintain oral health, by minimizing dental problems in the elderly population, are among the reasons for this considerable increase.
Oral care in Developing Countries
On the contrary, the reality in developing nations is entirely different. For example, although tooth decay is very common in the developed world, it is surprisingly rare in African countries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), this is primarily due to the scarcity of sugar in people's diets. A bacterial infection that affects impoverished children and destroys the soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity called Noma, is prevalent throughout the Sub-Saharan region in lieu of dental caries. As shown by studies, it may surpass death rates of HIV/AIDS and malaria in the upcoming decades. As a response to that, the International No-Noma Federation was established by a group of 30 foundations and non-governmental organizations. In Africa, a coordinated effort to address the disease includes village-specific awareness programs, malnutrition solutions, and increased surveillance. While prevention is vital, a treatment-based strategy involving dental surgery is frequently required but costly. Such programs rely on both private investments and a sufficient group of dental professionals.
Conclusion
The reports show that dental health problems affect both the developed and the developing world. The first step to address them is the integration of oral health in the healthcare system, the appropriate distribution of medical staff across the world, and educational programs and campaigns for the low-income and high-risk populations. Spreading awareness will be a long process, but it starts with the preventative measures taken by individuals. The quality of life depends on personal hygiene, of which dental care should be an integral part.
Sources:
http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs318/en/
http://www.webdentistry.com/Article1421-fra.html
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dental-hygienists.htm
http://www.who.int/oral_health/disease_burden/global/en/
http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0022034515582062
http://www.nonoma.org/en/nos-activites/prevenir/
Struggles and Solutions for FMCG Companies in the Pandemic
The global pandemic has had a significant impact on every industry, particularly those that are FMCG (Fast-moving consumer goods) companies. The pandemic has caused many consumers to change their spending habits, opting for cheaper alternatives instead of more expensive brands. As a result, some FMCG companies have seen considerable decreases in sales due to this behavior shift.
The consumer goods industry is struggling with a number of challenges nowadays:
- Competitive pressure is high because its markets are fairly saturated.
- Customers are reacting to this abundance in a price-sensitive way.
- Because private labels are pushing into the markets, the pressure on manufacturer brands to innovate is increasing.
Another problem is that consumers perceive the range of consumer goods as homogeneous and therefore interchangeable. Thus, the consumer goods market has the highest perceived brand uniformity compared to other sectors.
Stagnation due to disrupted supply chains
For some items, such as toilet paper and flour, supply chains have been completely sucked dry. Stocks, which are usually enough to cushion fluctuations in sales, were also gone. What is now being newly produced is being sold off again directly – even if this has hardly anything to do with actual demand. People stock up on everything, also oral hygiene products.
In ordinary situations, consumers purchased fast-moving consumer goods when needed. The pandemic caused people to start buying these goods in bulk and store them for future use. This sudden shortage of goods put pressure on the entire FMCG industry, many found it hard to cope with the sudden increase in sales.
Most FMCG companies relied on getting raw material from the international market, which caused stagnation and halts in production. Many companies have already started restructuring their supply chain. If the state is in lockdown again, the industry maintains its supply chain and prevents manufacturing stagnation.
Mental health issues due to isolation
The effects of the pandemic are not only felt in the sales figures, delivery difficulties or lack of digitalization – many employees suffer greatly from mental health issues due to the current isolation. Also, the increased demand of such products can lead to problems such as burnout, here it is important as an FMCG company to invest in good HR power to guarantee suitable solutions for the mental and physical health of employees in the long term.
Food retailers had a special boom for weeks as many people built up extra stock at home. Parallel to this, demand is shifting away from bulk supply in canteens or restaurants to retailers, as many companies and restaurants are still closed. Even though this does not change the total amount consumed: Food out of Home is declining massively which led to financial loss for many companies, which then relied on government aid and funding options. Food-related FMCG products such as cosmetics, toiletries, etc. are experiencing high demand. However, some sales channels have been closed due to the crisis, which in turn may lead to relocation effects.
Digitalization is more important than ever
A consumer survey on the topic of FMCG focused on a company's touchpoints with its customers on various channels. What becomes clear is: In the Awareness and Information phases, customers primarily use the brand website to obtain information. In the consideration phase, however, independent test reports are preferred, and the purchase itself is then made on retailers' websites.
In the after-sales phase, however, the brand's website regains importance again: this is where inquiries are made to customer service when customers need support. The results show that cooperation between dealers and manufacturers is and remains essential. Both sides would benefit from sharing information and data about target groups. Not to be forgotten: The aforementioned, digital channels tend to reach a younger generation under 40, while older customers still use traditional contact and information options.
Top trend: sustainability and health
It's a trend that's been a long time in the making but has picked up speed once again due to the pandemic: Consumers are placing more and more value on sustainable products, regional sourcing of goods, and healthier lifestyles. Retailers are responding to this trend by increasingly listing products that meet these demands – other products inevitably have to make way for them and make room on the shelves. For the marketing of these consumer goods, this means: These topics need to be highlighted.
Tip: Show consumers where the products come from and what impact they have on the environment. And here too, listen to your customers, actively include their wishes and needs in product developments, and also work closely with retailers, as they are naturally often closer to the customer.
How FMCG companies responded in the short-term to the consequences of the pandemic
- Flexible staff scheduling due to employees' absence caused by illness, and higher protection standards and safety margins. Many producers have to cancel shifts, while others operate on a rotating basis.
- Ensuring the availability of sufficient logistics capacity. Many producers have problems transporting their goods to the retail distribution centers on time and in sometimes increased quantities under appropriate conditions.
- Supply chain management: goods are rescheduled at short notice. Time and again, dependencies on individual ingredients or parts arise that block entire production processes and have to be resolved ad hoc to avoid a production standstill. In the non-food area, goods are canceled, returned, and talks are held with suppliers in order to negotiate other conditions and acceptance periods.
Summary
After the crisis, there will be a substantial reorganization of supply chains. This cannot be done in the short term. Here are the essential elements, as far as they are already visible today:
- Dual or multiple sourcing instead of single sourcing – procurement will be broadened. There will also be a shortening of supply chains.
- FMCG companies need to focus on their employees' mental health in order to keep up with the changing demand for their products
- The increased build-up of safety stocks of critical precursors, especially for raw materials and goods that are only found in a few regions of the world.
- Making it as easy as possible for consumers to gather all the information they need is essential to company's success in the future.
- The issue of sustainability should be considered in its entirety. For a world population that will exceed the 10 billion mark in a few decades, companies will need new utilization concepts for existing resources. Ideally, these will be implemented in combination via a merging of sustainability approaches and restructuring of supply chains.
Sources:
https://cnr.ncsu.edu/news/2020/05/coronavirus-toilet-paper-shortage/
https://www.kantar.com/inspiration/consumer/covid-19-led-to-$22-billion-fall-in-out-of-home-sales
https://www.euromonitor.com/the-impact-of-coronavirus-on-beauty-and-personal-care/report
https://www.bbc.com/news/business-55630144
Nordics’ Natural Ingredients Make a Difference!
Did you know your smile can reveal your age? Show us your smile and we'll tell you how old you are! A younger person’s teeth have a cleaner, whiter enamel tone, a natural shine, and their gums are healthy-looking. As people get older, the teeth become stained because of drinks like coffee and red wine and the gum tissues pull away, revealing the base or root of the teeth. Since aging is inevitable, it is up to us to prioritize our oral health from an early age and maintain a healthy and bright smile.
There are plenty of dental care products available nowadays. Besides the typical and dominant minty flavors, the herbal dental product segment has shown great promise, winning over more consumers who are eager to adopt more natural products in their personal hygiene routine. While most oral care brands have yet to expand their product line towards sustainable practices, Nordics offers exclusively premium products with bio-certified natural oils, extracts, and active ingredients. Combining scientific expertise with nature’s best ingredients, the Nordics products highlight each element based on its properties and its benefits in oral health.
The Nordics Natural Ingredients
Sneak a peek at the miraculous natural ingredients that Nordics incorporated in our unique dental product range.
- Sage. This herb belongs to the mint family, has a powerful aroma and earthy flavor, and is packed with nutrients and active ingredients, ideal for overall good health. Studies have revealed that sage essential oil is highly effective in preventing dental plaque, as it destroys the cavity-causing bacteria thanks to its antimicrobial properties.
- Nettle. Another staple in herbal medicine, nettle has been used since ancient times by Egyptians and Romans. It contains a lot of nutrients such as vitamins, polyphenols, minerals, amino acids, protecting the oral cavity from gum diseases such as gingivitis. Thanks to their properties, our Nordics Organic toothpaste for Sensitive Gums contains these two herbs to ensure structural integrity and healthy gum tissues.
- Charcoal. Ancient civilizations have used this natural ingredient to clean their teeth thousands of years ago. Currently, it is one of the biggest trends in dental care products and it is promoted for its teeth whitening properties. The active ingredients in activated charcoal also remove stains from the surface of the teeth, absorb toxins and prevent bad breath or halitosis.
- Matcha. The Japanese swear by the wide variety of incredible benefits matcha tea offers for optimal health. Studies show that the antioxidants present in matcha can help prevent up to 10 different bacterial strains, which cause tooth decay. It is also effective in treating gingivitis, fighting bad breath, and even reducing the risk for oral cancer. These two ingredients are present in our NordicsOrganic toothpaste Ultra White and needless to say, it is our best-selling product! The strong minty aroma leaves the mouth fresh and the teeth brighter.
- Mint. It’s the dominant natural ingredient in most dental care products. Even though mint was widely used as an air freshener by ancient Greeks and Romans, Egyptians were the first ones to use it in their toothpaste. Besides the fresh breath and the cooling sensation, mint is rich in vitamins and minerals, which enhance the enamel, remove toxins and bacteria, prevent oral health issues, and overall ensure healthy gums and teeth. Moreover, the active ingredients in mint leaves stimulate saliva production, which is essential to keep the surface of the teeth clean.
- Coconut. People all over the world use coconut oil for its many health-boosting properties. It’s a key ingredient in alternative and holistic medicine and the richest plant-based source of saturated fats. The lauric acid, the main type of fat in coconut, removes harmful bacteria, preventing oral diseases. It is also highly effective in protecting from the bacteria known to cause the bad odor and removing the food debris from the teeth, tongue, and inner cheeks.
Our brand new Nordics Natural toothpaste Morning Fresh offers all the above-mentioned benefits and is ideal for your morning routine. Plus the added aloe extract ensures healthy and strong gums.
Conclusion
There are a lot more natural ingredients the Nordics products are based on because of their great benefits to oral health. Natural dental products are at the forefront of the global consumer’s preferences because the harsh chemicals are eliminated, which makes them safer to use for humans and the environment. Building a brand around sustainability and professional dental care, Nordics has been one of the pioneers in organic dental hygiene products. Allowing the natural ingredients to be the protagonist of the clean label is what allows us in Nordics to inspire change in the industry. It’s the alternative that matters!
Sources
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4676988/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/stinging-nettle
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22226360/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coconut-oil-and-teeth#TOC_TITLE_HDR_6
Cavities - A Silent Global Threat You Didn’t Know
You must have heard about cavities and dental caries ever since you were a little kid. Especially when all you wanted to eat was candy and other sweet treats. And then your parents insisted that you would brush your teeth, remember? Well, if you listened to them, you might have saved some painful trips to the dentist.
Everyone talks about the importance of brushing your teeth 2-3 times per day and flossing at least once per day, right? But do you really know what happens to your teeth if you skip your dental hygiene and consume too much sugar? The truth is, there is an ongoing pandemic nobody pays as much attention as they should, and it’s called “tooth decay”, an infection caused by cavities.
What are dental caries?
Cavities, also known as dental caries, can affect any person of any age and gender and severely damage the tooth enamel. The tooth enamel is the outer and visible part of the crown, which consists of 96% minerals and protects the teeth from chewing, grinding, and painful temperatures and substances. Even though it is the hardest substance in our body, it can be degraded from the excessive consumption of sugar, acidic drinks, and plaque bacteria. So, when our dental hygiene is poor and we consume foods and drinks high on starch and sugar often, it is very likely to see some black spots on the surface of our teeth. These are essentially openings that allow the bacteria to penetrate further into the dentine and erode the deeper layers of the teeth, causing toothache, infections, and eventually tooth loss.
What are the symptoms?
The extension of the symptoms depends on the location and the damage caused by bacteria. How do you know when you have dental caries? In the very early stages, there might not be any visible spots or pain. When the cavity progresses, a small hole and discoloration will become apparent and possibly higher sensitivity to sugary treats and cold drinks or foods. If the cavity reaches deeper layers of the tooth, affecting the roots or nerves, then the typical giveaways are the bad taste in the mouth and spontaneous pain, sharp pain from hot drinks and foods, and from pressure. At that stage, the infection is widespread and a visit to the dentist is absolutely necessary to prevent the infection from advancing to the jaw bone, gums, or other teeth. Happily, Nordics has a robust combination of ingredients to prevent cavity formation and scrape away bacteria buildup in your mouth.
Can you be prone to cavities?
Based on a few clinical studies, teeth brushing and flossing are not the panacea to never getting cavities. Researchers claim that tooth decay has everything to do with sugar consumption because this is what the bacteria feed on and damage the teeth. On top of that, there is a link between genetics and tooth decay, which is still under scientific investigation. Experts have based this assumption on the fact that genes are responsible for the quality of teeth enamel. Since some people are born with softer enamel, they are more susceptible to tooth decay, even if their diet is not that high on sugar and their oral hygiene is good. Gene variations in the saliva can also play a role in how well the immune system responds to a bacteria overgrowth. Another condition that can cause gum diseases and tooth decay is dry mouth or xerostomia. One of the key roles of saliva production is to remove bacteria and food residue from the surface of the teeth, so the low saliva flow can cause bacteria accumulation.
Further health implications
Did you know tooth decay can lead to a number of serious health problems, including heart and brain infections? Any infection can cause a lot of damage if left untreated. But in the case of dental care, this can turn life-threatening really fast! Apart from gingivitis and periodontitis, which are diseases of the gums and bones, these are a few of the medical conditions caused by unattended cavities:
➢ Respiratory issues. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, people who have plaque buildup and extensive gum damage, breathe in the bacteria from the infected teeth and gums to their respiratory system. This can lead to respiratory tract complications, pneumonia, and other pulmonary infections, and hospitalization is required.
➢ Heart problems. Similar to respiratory complications, the bacteria can be transferred to the bloodstream and the heart arteries. Especially people who suffer from periodontal diseases run a high risk of accumulating bacteria around the heart arteries, which can inhibit the proper blood flow. As for people who suffer from bleeding gums, this dental infection could trigger a heart condition, called endocarditis, which occurs due to bacteria present around the heart valves and can cause heart attacks.
➢ Diabetes. Patients with this diagnosis are more likely to develop gum diseases as their immune system is weakened. At the same time, patients with severe gum diseases run the risk of developing diabetes due to blood-glucose imbalances and the production of harmful bacteria.
➢ Brain diseases. Studies have revealed a correlation between gum infections and brain infections such as meningitis. This serious and life-threatening disease can result from an untreated and extended gum infection, where the bacteria of the infected area can travel to the membranes near the brain and spinal cord and cause severe swelling, sepsis, stroke, and paralysis.
How to prevent them
Even if genetics play a role in the quality of the teeth, it is of the utmost importance that we take care of our oral health. Tooth decay may be a complex disease, but it is easily preventable. It comes down to maintaining good oral hygiene and specifically brushing your teeth 2-3 times per day using fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash. A healthier diet and lifestyle which limits sugary foods and drinks, fizzy drinks, carb-loaded snacks and smoking is also a preventive measure you can take to ensure less chance of getting dental caries. Needless to say, regular dental checkups once or twice a year for meticulous examination and treatment are mandatory to keep the cavities at bay.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892
https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19912122/cavity-prone-teeth/
https://cpwdentistry.com/genetics-and-cavities/
https://www.perio.org/consumer/healthy-lungs
https://www.guardiandirect.com/dental-care/2-ways-bad-teeth-can-damage-heart-health
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-dry-mouth
Meet Surfrider Foundation - the Partners of Nordics - Selfless Warriors for a Noble Cause
Nordics is a professional dental care brand, but its ethos stretches also to sustainability and customer satisfaction. That’s why supporting great causes is an important part of our identity. Naturally, we chose an amazing partner to support - the Surfrider Foundation. Read on to find out how together we actually clean the oceans.
Introducing – Surf Rider Foundation
Established by surfers in 1990 in Biarritz, France, the Surf Rider Foundation Europe has always been caring about the ocean. There are more than 2,000 volunteers and 43 local branches in Europe right now – which shows there are many dedicated environmentalists here who focus on preserving and cleaning our oceans, seas, and rivers.
As mentioned in magazines like National Geographic, the Surf Rider Foundation is leading in environmental protection and conservation.
Worldwide there are over 182,000 active volunteers and 176 chapters and student clubs that help to keep the oceans and coasts clean. By supporting the Surf Rider Foundation we’re not only supporting clean oceans, but also climate change and its impacts.
What are the common deeds of Nordics & Surf Rider Foundation?
The Surf Rider Foundation is a group of action takers who protect the health and sustainability of our planet’s most precious resource – the ocean. Besides defending our oceans from challenges threatening the vitality of the ecosystem, the NGO also acts on issues that threaten our beaches and natural shorelines.
Reducing the impact of plastics on the marine ecosystem is one of the most important tasks the Surf Rider Foundation has to face daily.
Surf Rider Europe works with individual citizens, public sectors, and also private sectors on education and awareness, political advocacy, and scientific and legal expertise.
Nordics is a global sponsor of SRF since 2017. We contribute to their noble cause is by donating 0,5 percent of our annual revenue to the organization. Each donated euro equals 5 sq.m. of cleaned beaches. That's how Nordics has provided 15 000 sq.m. of clean beaches until now.
The importance of clean oceans
Climate change and demographic pressure on coastal areas are impacting our daily lives.
Every year, about 8 million tons of plastic wastelands are in the ocean. This is a huge problem, especially because there are countless benefits to our planet of clean oceans. Half of the world’s oxygen is produced by the ocean, and it also absorbs 50 times more carbon dioxide than our atmosphere. With plastic in the ocean, the ecosystem is disrupted.
For a more detailed view of how much plastic pollution influences the ocean, we can highly recommend the documentary “A Plastic Ocean”. It shows the dramatic damage plastic causes to marine wildlife, just because billions of plastic ends in the ocean – one more reason why we should protect the oceans at all costs.
How is Nordics supporting this?
Plastic is used in every industry by now – and that’s a problem. In 2020, more than 300 million tons of plastic waste have been produced. Around 79 percent of it was accumulated in landfills or the environment. And the largest market of plastics is packaging materials. Which is another reason why it’s essential to focus on alternatives for packaging products.
Traditional toothpaste, for example, is packaged in classic plastic tubes that cannot be recycled.
So, let's make a quick reminder of our specialties. We use 100% recyclable tubes of bioplastic for our toothpastes, our mouthwash bottles are made of 100% recycled plastic, our toothbrushes are made of bamboo. That's how we are drastically decreasing the amount of plastic that pollutes beaches and oceans.
Furthermore, we focus on not using any harmful ingredients for our products, not only inside the formula but also during the process of production. Our toothpastes are without sugar, free from preservatives, and without harsh chemical compounds. We at Nordics do not only reshape traditional dental products but also think about future generations and how we can have a positive impact on them.
Nordics is not just reducing the use of plastic waste in the oral care industry. We are an official sponsor of the NGO and donate a percentage of every purchase to the Surf Rider Foundation cause. So, with every purchase of one of our Nordics products, you contribute directly to plastic-free oceans and landfills.
Oral care can be environmental-friendly, too, without missing out on high quality. We avoid using harmful ingredients and created organic, vegan-certified, and cruelty-free products to support good oral hygiene.
Choosing Nordics is not just buying a product but supporting a vision and a mission.
10+1 myths about oral care: Debunked!
There is a myriad of tips on oral hygiene available online, but not all of them are meant to be taken seriously. Some of them offer misleading facts about proper oral hygiene. It’s about time to separate facts from fiction. While good habits in your daily dental routine are simple and not at all time-consuming, the wrong practices are highly likely to cause extensive damage to your teeth and put your overall health at major risk.
The following are the most common oral care myths that are all over the Internet but debunked by dental professionals.
1) Sugar is the sole culprit for cavities and the source of all evil. Growing up, you might have associated candy with cavities, but the sugar itself doesn’t destroy your teeth. Besides sugar, the consumption of carbohydrates also plays a role in that. The bacteria living in the oral cavity feed off the residual sugar and carbohydrates that stick on the surface of teeth and tongue and then cause tooth decay and other dental diseases.
2) Brushing hard and fast is the only way to clean your teeth effectively. That’s actually false and it can cause a lot more damage than you think! Brushing hard even with a soft-bristled toothbrush will put a lot of unnecessary pressure on your gums. This will undoubtedly lead to gum bleeding and even gingival recession, meaning the exposure of the roots and bone. Dentists recommend gentle and short strokes for 2-3 minutes.
3) Flossing is not a necessary part of your daily routine. That is not true and something you should incorporate in your oral hygiene. Flossing ensures the removal of food residue between the teeth, where a toothbrush may not always be 100% effective.
4) Chewing gum can replace tooth brushing when you’re in a time crunch. Although sugar-free chewing gum can remove some bacteria on the surface of the teeth, it is just a short-term and easy solution. However, nothing can replace brushing and flossing.
5) Kids don’t have to brush their baby teeth because they’ll fall out, anyway. Dental practitioners highlight the importance of a dental care routine very early in a kid's life. Daily gum cleaning and brushing baby teeth can relieve teething pain and encourage the teeth to erupt.
6) Gum bleeding only affects your mouth. Gum bleeding is something to be taken seriously and treated as soon as possible. It indicates an infection in your mouth but it can quickly cause problems to your heart, lungs and even brain!
7) You can skip the visit to the dentist if your teeth look white. The typical recommendation for dental appointments is twice a year for a reason. No matter how good your oral hygiene is, you need frequent professional teeth cleanings to prevent plaque buildup or cavity formation. The white color only refers to the enamel and doesn’t exclude the chance of tooth decay, inflammation, and any other types of oral health issues.
8) Everyone has to remove their wisdom teeth. Not true, if the wisdom teeth are healthy and fully erupted, correctly aligned, and the bite is accordingly positioned. Their removal is advised when necessary to avoid potential infections and dental crowding.
9) Electric toothbrushes are better than regular toothbrushes. It’s not about the type of toothbrush you use, but the actual brushing that is the only important factor for clean teeth, among other dental hygiene practices.
10) It’s ok to slack on your brushing and flossing as long as you clean your teeth very well right before your dentist appointment. One day of good oral hygiene simply cannot beat weeks and months of slacking and the dentists can’t be fooled. The tartar buildup, which happens over months, doesn’t go away with brushing, and professional teeth cleaning is absolutely necessary.
11) Drinking with a straw is better for your teeth. That is kind of true and kind of false. Using a straw can protect your teeth from stains and acidic drinks, but chewing on it can cause teeth misalignment.
It’s important to search for the right information, especially about anything related to our health. Prioritizing your dental checkups twice a year and using the appropriate oral care products are key for optimal oral health. Find these products here.
Sources:
https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/healthy-teeth-guide/dental-myths/
https://www.humana.com/dental-insurance/6-dental-myths-debunked
https://www.businessinsider.com/14-common-myths-about-teeth-debunked-dentists-2020-10
Facts and Figures: COVID19 and the Toothpaste Sector
The Oral Care Industry
Due to rising consumer awareness about dental health across emerging nations, the importance of toothpaste and oral care products has increased significantly in recent years. The essence of oral-care products derives from the fact that the majority of oral health problems can be prevented and/or treated using commercially available products. World Health Organization (WHO) states that oral diseases affect almost 45% of the world population, posing a great health challenge for many countries, where the affected people deal with lifelong severe dental infections resulting in pain, disfigurement, and even death. Despite the life-threatening implications an oral disease can trigger, dental treatments are costly and are not covered by medical insurance companies. They only cover 5% for dentist visits and treatments in high-income countries, while in most low- to middle-income countries there is little policy to cover this type of medical expenditure.
Considering the number of oral diseases, the dental care industry serves both consumers and dental practitioners. Goods and oral care solutions are nuanced, and the level of skill and infrastructure required to manufacture these products vary substantially. However, due to the volume of customers worldwide, generic products that appeal to consumers outperform those that cater toward more specialized sectors in terms of value. As a result, the market's main sales and distribution channels comprise supermarkets and convenience stores, drugstores and pharmacies, specialty stores, and, more recently, the online retail marketplace.
Toothpaste sales vs Covid-19
Since toothpaste falls under the category of commodities, the export of such products across borders was allowed with little to no restriction.
The COVID-19 pandemic seemed to have a minor effect on the global toothpaste sector. The demand for toothpaste was generally unaffected throughout the year. Nevertheless, the consumers around the world were more likely to favor brands that offered discounts on additional purchases, as well as products that were high in volume yet low in price due to the overall financial hardships. Lately, the rising number of dental conditions among children and adults as a result of bad dietary habits, as well as the increasing interest in herbal oral care products, are the key factors driving the toothpaste sector. Furthermore, the escalating trend of premium brands and consumers demanding more specialized solutions are propelling the market's growth.
The top oral care brands have taken advantage of the increasing customer awareness, expanding their product categories with more specialized options such as teeth-whitening toothpastes and other innovative oral care products. The technological advances allowed brands to implement more competitive marketing strategies revolving around sustainability and the addition of natural ingredients such as herbs.
What About Statistics in the Oral Care Sector?
According to surveys, the international toothpaste market is expected to increase at a CAGR of 3.4 percent from 2019 to 2027. Specifically, the global market share was 17.75 Billion US Dollars and it is estimated to reach almost 22 Billion during the forecast period.
The Asia-Pacific region holds the largest market share, mainly because of the high number of customers, the lifestyle shifts, and the rise in household expenses. Hence, the shift towards sustainable policies is utterly essential. In fact, industry leaders are putting an emphasis on environmentally friendly packaging. A lot of the top producers like Colgate are adopting waste-minimization techniques and developing entirely recyclable toothpaste tubes. Due to the single-use packaging, 300 million toothpaste tubes are dumped at landfills around the world to address the problem.
As for the product categories, the herbal toothpaste segment will present the highest CAGR of 5.6% by 2027. There are various factors driving this growth, such as the global movement towards natural and eco-friendly personal care products and the consumers’ preference to eliminate chemicals in essential goods. Yet, the dominant product will still be the conventional toothpaste, as it is perceived to guarantee fresh breath, gum and teeth infections, and bacterial overgrowth. (Source: www.alliedmarketresearch.com/toothpaste-market-A11278)
Regarding the segmentation by region, the Asia- Pacific will hold the leading position, as it accounts for 60% of the global population. Domestic brands such as Dabur and Lion Corporation are gaining ground in the regional markets and they form partnerships with leading distribution companies to test their products on the global market.
It is worth noting that Europe and North America are projected to accelerate considerably due to lifestyle and dietary choices such as smoking and consuming coffee, acidic soda drinks, and meat, as it’s part of their culture. Thanks to the high levels of income and the citizens’ priority to proper dental hygiene habits, they turn towards the premiumization of dental care and sustainable practices.
The Top 5 Brands in the World
The top brand names in the toothpaste sector are:
- Procter & Gamble
- Colgate-Palmolive
- Lion Corporation
- Unilever
- GlaxoSmithKline PLC
The majority of the shares are held by the above-mentioned companies, except Lion Corporation, which is based in Japan. The market is highly competitive with a lot of small regional brands, but these five hold the leading positions. This offers them the competitive advantage to expand their product portfolio and provide niche products, addressing more issues such as sensitivity and pain relief. In fact, GlaxoSmithKline PLC launched a mint toothpaste in 2018, specifically for customers with sensitive teeth and gums across significant markets. Plus, a year prior, Unilever Ghana Limited introduced a similar product to the market, but in three variants, whose unique formula offered holistic protection and treatment for sensitive teeth.
Sources
www.alliedmarketresearch.com/toothpaste-market-A11278
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/oral-health
https://www.gdpuk.com/news/latest-news/3869-toothpaste-tubes-an-environmental-hazard
https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/toothpaste-market-104484
https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/global-toothpaste-market
How Dental Care Earned Their Spot In eCommerce
How many times have you bought a toothbrush or toothpaste without even thinking about it? Probably more than you can count. And how many times did you use eCommerce for the purchase? Dental care is an important element of overall health and well-being, which is exactly why it is crucial to invest a little more thought into what kind of products you use. Luckily - according to an Oral Care Hygiene Market report, people are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of oral health for overall health, which has transformed the way we choose and buy dental care products.
Commodity goods and the law of demand
All commodities derive their value from their ability to be sold on the global market. The sale of commodities is a universal process that remains unchanged regardless of the product's use or the country that it is sold in. The sale of any commodity depends solely on the law of supply and demand.
E-commerce of dental care products
In the light of recent events, new opportunities have opened up in the oral care market. The growing popularity of e-commerce stores for oral care products is setting new trends in dentistry. Now more than ever, oral care products are being sold on e-commerce platforms. Pandemic has reshaped the way people shop for everyday products, including cosmetic products and toiletries. In fact, shopping at online oral care shops is now more popular than in physical stores like pharmacies. That fact can easily be explained by the advantages e-shopping brings along like the availability of multi-brand oral care products, price promotions, bundles, ease of purchasing, and free shipping. It is no surprise that because of this growing trend major market players have increased their investments in these channels.
A marked shift in the way people buy dental care products
For decades, toothpaste has been marketed as a cosmetic product, regarded as having little importance to overall health. As such, people weren’t exactly thinking or doing any research about what kind of toothpaste or toothbrush they should use. Most would simply head to the nearest supermarket and buy the first toothpaste they see.
Due to the Covid pandemic as well as the growing awareness of oral health importance, there has been a marked increase in online purchase of oral care products. In fact, according to the Research and Markets 2020/2025 forecast report, the oral care hygiene market is projected to reach USD 53.3 billion by 2025, with the toothpaste segment holding the highest market share.
These two consumer behavior changes have helped rank products like toothpastes and toothbrushes higher on the list of priorities. In addition to that, these realizations have had a huge impact not only on a personal but also on an economical level, which we’ll discuss in the subsequent paragraphs.
Implications on an economic level
With that in mind, it is no wonder that the FMCG market has been growing rapidly over the last decade. In fact, sales in the FMCG industry grew from $1.5 trillion in 2012 to $1.68 trillion in 2016. In a year-over-year comparison, the industry grew by $217 billion. The huge growth of the FMCG markets is detectable not only in the United States, but also in Europe, China, India, and Brazil. Another contributing factor to more toothpastes and mouthwash being sold globally is the fact that consumption of sugar is growing steadily, and is suspected to rise to about 171.8 million metric tons by 2020/2021. Excessive sugar consumption, as you probably know, is tied to tooth decay because of the way it alters the bacteria in your mouth to produce acid which then eats away the enamel causing cavities and bad teeth.
Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) take up a significant percentage of spending in developed countries like the United States. These everyday products, including cosmetics and toiletries like toothpastes and soaps, account for more than half of total consumer spending. Because people are paying more attention to the fact that dental products are both a necessity and a commodity, these products are now becoming more available online.
Implications on a personal level
In most cases, when you set out to buy a commodity good, you simply buy the most affordable or easily reachable item and then move on with your life. However, thanks to a boom in online shopping, people are now choosing more deliberately what they buy.
Browsing online, as opposed to physically visiting the store has several benefits, especially when it comes to dental care products like toothbrushes, toothpastes, and dental floss.
Being able to shop for FMCG online has several advantages:
- you can easily compare prices of different brands and product types;
- you can read other people’s reviews to make an informed choice;
- you can compare features, look at the ingredient list - something you rarely do at the pharmacy or store because there is no sales pressure;
- you can relax and make an informed choice at your own pace, worthy of your money.
People are often not aware of the health implications everyday personal care products may have on their health. Little by little, chemicals in these products can affect your overall wellbeing. Why not avoid that when you can? Opt for naturally derived oral care products whenever you can. You should never skimp on oral care, even when you are trying to save money - simply because oral health has a huge impact on many aspects of your overall well-being.
Sources:
https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/oral-care-market-80546246.html
https://www.statista.com/map/europe/branch/consumer-goods-fmcg
https://unctad.org/news/how-covid-19-triggered-digital-and-e-commerce-turning-point
Nordics recyclable tubes: a life-saving innovation
You might have been buying toothpaste for years, but have you ever wondered where the plastic tubes end up when they’re empty? The collapsible toothpaste tubes were first made of metal, such as tin or lead, and later on, a combination of plastic and aluminum. This allowed flexible packaging, however not really being recyclable. Oral hygiene companies across the globe have taken initiatives in the last few years in order to address the sustainability issue by introducing sustainable and innovative packaging products.
Why do more and more companies quit using plastics? Plastics are produced by oil or petroleum, which are finite sources that could possibly be depleted in the next 50 years. In addition to that, manufacturing plastics releases chemicals, which are extremely harmful to the environment. Despite the advantages plastic packaging offered until now, it is time to eliminate all materials which endanger the natural sources of our planet and the air quality and atmosphere. Considering the volume of plastic which ends up polluting our oceans and ecosystem, and the fact that it can end up inside our system through what we consume, makes it so much more concerning and we must implement immediate measures on a global scale.
The Rise of Bioplastics
Bioplastic was introduced as a potential alternative material, made from biological material instead of petroleum. A material is considered bioplastic if it meets at least one of two criteria:
- It is manufactured by renewable plant-based resources
- It is biodegradable, meaning it has the capacity to be decomposed into water and carbon dioxide by microorganisms.
Due to the plant-based sources used for bioplastic production, the carbon dioxide emissions are very low, so the integration of this type of material is highly recommended by environmentalists and climate organizations.
The first bioplastic, known as polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) was discovered almost 100 years ago by a French researcher. However, people used exclusively petroleum for its price and abundance until the 1970s, when the petroleum crisis led them to use alternative materials and take a closer look at the bioplastic discovery.
How is it produced? There are two ways to manufacture it. The first one refers to extracting sugar from sugarcane or plants like corn and converting it into polylactic acids (PLAs). The second way refers to processing microorganisms, resulting in polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs). The PLAs are more used in food packaging while the PHAs can be found in medical equipment and surgical tools. Between the two types, the PLAs require less capital to manufacture, actually making them the least expensive bioplastic product. Hence, manufacturers took an interest and put it to use for utensil production, food packaging, and more.
Nordics Mission
Our mission has always been focused on two key areas: sustainability and premium quality. We aim to inspire change by setting an example with our ethical standards through the ingredients and the manufacturing of our oral care products. Apart from choosing certified, cruelty-free, and vegan first materials for our organic dental care products, Nordics has revolutionized toothpaste packaging. True to our mission, Nordics has introduced a recyclable tube, made of Sugarcane-based Polyethylene (PE). Equipped with the same properties as its non-recyclable counterpart, a sugarcane tube presents the following benefits:
- It is made by the residue of sugarcane, which is used to produce ethanol
- It is a renewable source, meaning that it does not endanger the finite sources of energy of our planet
- It is recyclable, so it can be reused for the same or other products, not like the typical toothpaste tubes which end up on landfills
- The carbon footprint emission is considerably low, as the sugarcane metabolizes more carbon dioxide to grow than most plants and it regenerates by itself.
One of the biggest challenges oral care companies had to face was to source collapsible tubes which could be recycled. Up until now, the regular plastic tubes had an inner lining of aluminum, crucial for the structure, which made it impossible to recycle. However, the global consumer interest in sustainable packaging and the introduction of bioplastics have allowed more companies to discontinue the harmful plastic tubes.
Conclusion
The big companies in the oral health sector have recently announced the shift to recyclable packaging in order to tackle climate change and adopt sustainable techniques. We at Nordics are proud to represent the much-needed movement towards green energy and plant-based renewable sources.
While the top oral hygiene brands now introduce new recyclable toothpaste tubes and transform their branding and positioning, the driving forces behind our purpose have remained the same since day one. Nordics products will always be equivalent to innovation, sustainability, top oral health and the utmost respect for our Mother Nature.
Sources:
https://www.britannica.com/technology/bioplastic
How To Naturally Whiten Your Teeth
It's not a secret that many people have stained teeth. Whether it is due to coffee, tea, smoking or aging, there are many factors that can lead to teeth discoloration. But whitening your teeth by a professional can be quite sumptuous, and sometimes it's not even possible to whiten the teeth because there is no strong enamel which is essential for this procedure.
So, in order to help you, Nordics have compiled a list of the 4 ways how you can naturally whiten your teeth:
-
Decrease your sugar intake
Sugar per se is not directly bad for the teeth. However, the sugar in the oral cavity is consumed by the bacteria of the normal flora, and lactic acid is formed in the process. The lactic acid damages the surface of the teeth, the enamel is attacked and loses minerals. Furthermore, the lactic acid leads to a lowering of the pH value in the oral cavity and thus damages your mouth flora – this normally defends the oral cavity from pathogenic bacteria. If it is damaged, caries and other pathogenic bacteria have an easy go. The less sugar you consume, the less lactic acid is produced, and the less chance of caries and the healthier the oral cavity.
It makes sense to not completely exclude but limit the consumption of sugary foods and thus not constantly expose your teeth to sugar or lactic acid. Furthermore, it would be good to wait about half an hour after consuming sugar and then brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush to rid the oral cavity of the lactic acid and the remaining sugar as far as possible.
- Fruits that brighten your teeth
Do you know that tingling feeling on your tongue and lips when you eat pineapple? This is triggered by the enzyme bromelian contained in the fruit. It breaks down proteins – and that even noticeably. Pineapple not only supports digestion and has an anti-inflammatory effect, but it also helps you to have whiter teeth. Plaque, which is deposited on your teeth and causes discoloration, consists of proteins. Pineapple enzymes help break down these plaque proteins. In this way, the fruit counteracts unsightly stains.
With strawberries, however, you can even really damage the teeth from the outside. You have to imagine that teeth are made of hydroxyapatite. This is the hardest tissue we have in the body. And if you apply acids to it, calcium and phosphate can dissolve out of this coating. This makes the surface rougher, and the tooth is no longer as stable. So the claim, that strawberries naturally whiten your teeth is something you should better keep your hands off, there is no proof that this method really works.
- Floss like a boss
Daily flossing is essential for healthy and white teeth. Although brushing is important for good oral hygiene, brushing alone cannot protect you from gum problems and tooth loss.
About 40 % of the tooth surface lies between the teeth. For larger gaps, there are interdental brushes. Together with a mouthwash (for example our soothing mint mouthwash, which dissolves plaque bacteria), the procedure takes about a minute – but is guaranteed to save an hour-long visit to the dentist. If you consistently floss your teeth, you will soon see a positive effect on the coloring of your teeth, and also have an overall better oral hygiene.
- Activated charcoal & baking soda
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, consists of a chemical compound that makes it a very mild abrasive. Its abrasive properties can remove stains from your teeth and make them appear whiter. However, if you want to remove deeper, older stains, baking soda is not as effective. With constant use, you can even damage the enamel.
Active charcoal is also often recommended for teeth whitening. In the short term, it removes impurities from the teeth, because the grains of the charcoal acts as an abrasive paper that scrubs discoloration from your teeth. After repeated use, this can actually make your teeth brighter.
However, compared to conventional toothpaste, activated charcoal has a much higher abrasiveness, similar to baking soda. Since the powder abrades the enamel and roughens the teeth in the long term, its use is not yet considered recommendable. The teeth become susceptible to caries. The roughening of the tooth surface also makes it easier for plaque and color pigments to adhere. If you want to use activated charcoal safely, we recommend using toothpaste with the ingredient in it (for example our organic whitening charcoal toothpaste).
Summary
In order to naturally whiten your teeth, you can do the following:
- Decrease your sugar consumption and adjust your diet
- Eat more fruits
- Include flossing in your daily oral hygiene routine
- Use toothpaste with activated charcoal in it
The Post Pandemic Future of Retail
Retailers are doing their best to adapt to the changes of a pandemic. However, there is no clear answer as to what will happen in the future. Will we be able to shop at stores? Will people want to go out and buy things if they have very little time left on Earth? What do consumers want?
Consumers still want to touch and see products before making a purchase decision. They also like the idea of getting personalized customer service in person as well as having access to more than just an eCommerce site's offerings. The future of retail might not necessarily have physical storefronts – but it does mean that retailers need to adapt and change with consumer demand or they may find themselves in dire straits sooner rather than later.
Online shopping has changed forever
Over the past few decades, online shopping has grown from a non-existent industry to one worth billion. Buying online has become a common practice for millions of people around the world. Recently, the number of people buying goods and services online has increased more than ever before. Personal care & cosmetics products saw an increase in online orders, especially in countries like Switzerland and Germany.
63 % of shopping occasions begin online. To keep up with the changes, brands need to offer an online + offline shopping experience. This means that regardless of where customers ultimately make the purchase, their customer journey begins online. In most cases, this is on Google or Amazon, where they do their research. This is also why it's critical for brands to have a strong online presence. By improving the customer experience from the very first step, companies have a higher chance of getting customers to buy from their store.
Digitalization for in-store shopping experiences
The pandemic has accelerated existing trends in the shopping behavior of European consumers. This is particularly evident in the shift from offline to online: 50 percent of European city dwellers now shop less in bricks-and-mortar retail than before the onset of the crisis. The clear beneficiary is online retail, which posted double-digit growth in the second quarter of 2020.
But brick-and-mortar retailers can also do a lot to bring customers back into stores and give them a pleasant and, above all, secure shopping experience. Even before the onset of the crisis, European customers valued technology in physical stores. One of the most important innovations to improve the customer experience is automatic checkout, which 34 percent of European consumers approve of. In second place among the popular store, technologies is the sending of personalized offers to the customer's smartphone as soon as they enter the store.
Digital labels will also become increasingly essential. People want to shop as contactless as possible. Businesses are moving towards using QR codes or tags to quickly add items to people’s carts.
Showrooms & smaller retail outlets
For brands, it is now more important than ever to stand out and convince with their digital storytelling: In virtual showrooms, brands can provide the infrastructure for 360-degree images and videos, shop-the-look features, and collection boards where brands can showcase their best sellers, for example. Smaller outlets are also a way to show customers that they can shop safely. These tools set them apart from the competition.
The best price wins – price competition increased
The reason for the financial losses is most likely to be that working hours have been reduced for those affected. This, together with time off, unpaid leave, or even termination, affects 46 % of people for whom the economic situation has deteriorated in the short term. In relation to the population as a whole, only 22 % report shorter working hours, time off, and dismissal.
As many people have less money, they will most likely lookup for the best deal – this results in price competition for many products, and forces brands to act.
Summary
In order to keep up with the rapid changes in retail, brands should focus on the following:
- Offer a great online shopping experience, even if the purchase happens offline
- In-store shopping experiences need to be digitalized in order to need customers' needs for contactless shopping
- Digital showrooms and smaller outlets are preferred over big retail spaces
- Customers will compare pricing online before they buy
Sources:
https://unctad.org/news/covid-19-has-changed-online-shopping-forever-survey-shows
https://www.thinkwithgoogle.com/consumer-insights/consumer-trends/trending-data-shorts/
https://www.pwc.de/en/retail-and-consumer/european-consumer-insights-series-2020-new-normal.html
https://www.vendhq.com/blog/contactless-shopping/
10 Tips And Tricks On Sustainability In Your Office
While often associated with sustainability, going “zero waste” or at least “low waste” doesn’t just benefit the environment - it also saves money, especially in the long run. As The Green Economy Coalition (a non-profit organization) notes, green buildings don’t just save money for owners and occupants, but also spur job creation and bring businesses and communities together.
If you’re thinking about making a switch to a greener business, these 10 small but meaningful ways will help get you started.
1. Turn off screensavers
Contrary to their name, screensavers do not save energy - they actually use more energy to keep the display on and play the animation on the screen. The best and most eco-friendly way to protect a screen that is not being used is to simply switch it off.
2. Buy Second-Hand
From office furniture to office supplies, buying second-hand is a sure way towards a greener office. Not only is second-hand office material and furniture a great way to get the most value for your money, it's also a great way to reduce the volume of materials used to manufacture new products, therefore reducing the number of raw materials and energy used to create a new product.
3. Use natural lighting
According to the World Green Building Council report, people exposed to natural daylight have a 15% higher production rate. Aside from positively affecting the body’s circadian rhythm and vitamin D absorption, natural lighting can also help you reduce energy consumption and utility bill costs.
4. Go paperless whenever you can
Paper is a resource that's easy to overuse - huge amounts of paper get tossed in the trash every day. Virtually every company is able to save money by going paperless. Whatever you need - whether it’s a monthly report, a client contract, or an info sheet - most of it can be done, sent, and stored digitally.
5. When you can’t - use recycled paper for printing
There are instances when you simply need something on paper. In case you can’t skip paper, make sure to use recycled paper instead. When it comes to paper use, recycled paper is the greenest option because it uses fewer resources and leaves a smaller carbon footprint than the manufacturing of regular paper.
6. Invest in reusable silverware
Plastic utensils are simply terrible for the environment. People rarely think about where all those plastic forks and knives that you throw away after a company celebration end up. Most of them are not recyclable or made from recycled material. Switching to regular silverware is a great way to eliminate plastic cutlery altogether.
7. Eliminate paper towels
You are not using a paper towel at home, are you? Whether in the kitchen or in the bathroom, you can easily replace paper towels with cloth towels and microfiber cleaning cloths. Also, consider bringing your own hand towel for hand drying every day.
8. Bring your own coffee mug
Whether you’re using an espresso machine or a French press, bringing your own reusable bottle or coffee mug to work is one of the simplest and most effective eco-initiatives you can take.
9. Use compostable plates and cups for company birthdays and promotions
Luckily, today there are plenty of affordable compostable or recyclable plates and glasses that come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Whether you’re celebrating birthdays or promotions, you can always avoid buying plastic single-use cups and plates.
10. Use pencils instead of pens
Pencils are considerably friendlier to the environment than pens. Unlike a pen, a pencil is made of wood, which is a renewable resource. And unlike a pen, a pencil can be re-used and re-sharpened, leaving just biodegradable waste, which means less plastic and disposable parts being generated.
Many offices have implemented initiatives to become sustainable and cut down on waste. But it's not always easy to know where to start, especially if your office isn't exactly the eco-friendly type. We hope this list helps you get some ideas on how to go zero waste in your own office, whether you're an office manager, a business owner, or simply someone who wants to make a change for the better.
Do your office colleagues practice any of these economical and eco-friendly ways to cut waste and energy consumption? Which ones would you like to incorporate in your office and why?
While often associated with sustainability, going “zero waste” or at least “low waste” doesn’t just benefit the environment - it also saves money, especially in the long run. As The Green Economy Coalition (a non-profit organization) notes, green buildings don’t just save money for owners and occupants, but also spur job creation and bring businesses and communities together.
If you’re thinking about making a switch to a greener business, these 10 small but meaningful ways will help get you started.
1. Turn off screensavers
Contrary to their name, screensavers do not save energy - they actually use more energy to keep the display on and play the animation on the screen. The best and most eco-friendly way to protect a screen that is not being used is to simply switch it off.
2. Buy Second-Hand
From office furniture to office supplies, buying second-hand is a sure way towards a greener office. Not only is second-hand office material and furniture a great way to get the most value for your money, it's also a great way to reduce the volume of materials used to manufacture new products, therefore reducing the number of raw materials and energy used to create a new product.
3. Use natural lighting
According to the World Green Building Council report, people exposed to natural daylight have a 15% higher production rate. Aside from positively affecting the body’s circadian rhythm and vitamin D absorption, natural lighting can also help you reduce energy consumption and utility bill costs.
4. Go paperless whenever you can
Paper is a resource that's easy to overuse - huge amounts of paper get tossed in the trash every day. Virtually every company is able to save money by going paperless. Whatever you need - whether it’s a monthly report, a client contract, or an info sheet - most of it can be done, sent, and stored digitally.
5. When you can’t - use recycled paper for printing
There are instances when you simply need something on paper. In case you can’t skip paper, make sure to use recycled paper instead. When it comes to paper use, recycled paper is the greenest option because it uses fewer resources and leaves a smaller carbon footprint than the manufacturing of regular paper.
6. Invest in reusable silverware
Plastic utensils are simply terrible for the environment. People rarely think about where all those plastic forks and knives that you throw away after a company celebration end up. Most of them are not recyclable or made from recycled material. Switching to regular silverware is a great way to eliminate plastic cutlery altogether.
7. Eliminate paper towels
You are not using a paper towel at home, are you? Whether in the kitchen or in the bathroom, you can easily replace paper towels with cloth towels and microfiber cleaning cloths. Also, consider bringing your own hand towel for hand drying every day.
8. Bring your own coffee mug
Whether you’re using an espresso machine or a French press, bringing your own reusable bottle or coffee mug to work is one of the simplest and most effective eco-initiatives you can take.
9. Use compostable plates and cups for company birthdays and promotions
Luckily, today there are plenty of affordable compostable or recyclable plates and glasses that come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Whether you’re celebrating birthdays or promotions, you can always avoid buying plastic single-use cups and plates.
10. Use pencils instead of pens
Pencils are considerably friendlier to the environment than pens. Unlike a pen, a pencil is made of wood, which is a renewable resource. And unlike a pen, a pencil can be re-used and re-sharpened, leaving just biodegradable waste, which means less plastic and disposable parts being generated.
Many offices have implemented initiatives to become sustainable and cut down on waste. But it's not always easy to know where to start, especially if your office isn't exactly the eco-friendly type. We hope this list helps you get some ideas on how to go zero waste in your own office, whether you're an office manager, a business owner, or simply someone who wants to make a change for the better.
Do your office colleagues practice any of these economical and eco-friendly ways to cut waste and energy consumption? Which ones would you like to incorporate in your office and why?
Beauty Trends of 2021
A lot can change in just one year. People's tastes, hobbies, and shopping habits are constantly evolving with the ever-changing world around us. It's no wonder then that beauty trends are also changing on an annual basis to keep up with the latest styles and technology available to consumers. What will be trending in 2021? Here is a brief overview of four megatrends we think are relevant this year:
DIY Products – toothcare at home
Do it yourself has always been a huge trend – however, according to a McKinsey survey it grew rapidly during the pandemic. DIY hacks like brushing teeth with activated charcoal or coconut oil have long been considered a supposed secret weapon in the beauty scene.
Whether as a powder, in the form of capsules, or as an additive in toothpastes, the black charcoal particles are said to clean our teeth of dirt and pollutants, thus freeing them from an unwanted yellow or grey haze. And indeed, if you brush your teeth with activated charcoal, you can expect a visibly whiter smile after just a few applications. But instead of buying pure activated charcoal at the next pharmacy, using our toothpaste with activated charcoal is the better way to DIY your teeth whitening process.
Home cosmetics are on the rise, a recent Sampler survey shows that almost 50 % of consumers find it enjoyable and therapeutic to do their self-care routine and beauty treatments at home. It offers them peace of mind to health and safety, which won't even disappear after the pandemic. 37 % of the survey takers responded that they would continue doing their treatments at home, only 16 % plan to go back to beauty salons & co. once they're reopening.
Personal care trends
The market research company Mintel has identified the pursuit of a holistic approach to achieving physical and mental well-being as one of the most important factors influencing consumer behavior today. Accordingly, adults are increasingly looking for products that enhance their physical, mental, and emotional health – including in the cosmetics sector. For example, nearly 90% of adults in the U.S. suffer from recurring pain or inflammation.
The trigger in many cases is chronic stress, which one-third of consumers struggle with. For these problems, they are often looking for non-medical solutions. According to Mintel's survey, the beauty and health industry, in particular, can provide relief here with milder, anti-inflammatory products.
The future beauty and health market could increasingly rely on synergy effects: according to Mintel's estimates, many consumers will be on the lookout for products that promise improved well-being without much effort. In particular, solutions that combine physical or emotional well-being with benefits for our appearance are expected to be in trend in the next years.
Smart shopping
Technology will become more important than before – and many brands start to adapt to this new demand. The Internet, smartphones, and the like make it possible to compare prices everywhere and all the time and to choose the provider that offers the best value for money. This type of shopping is called "smart shopping." However, it's not only the price comparison that turns shopping-lovers into real bargain finders – the when and where also reveals what you can look out for when shopping to get more for less money.