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Maybe now’s not the time to sound like a helicopter parent, but just because we’re in the midst of a pandemic doesn’t give you an excuse to skimp on your oral-care routine. If you neglect to brush your teeth, plaque can build up in less than 24 hours, causing superficial sensory problems like bad breath or discoloration, or long-term issues like gum disease. Suffice it to say, ensuring you’re stocked on toothpaste is important—but beyond having and using it, knowing which ingredients are in your tube is also necessary. So, what should you know about toothpaste without fluoride?
holistic dentist and founder of Green Dentistry in San Francisco
If you’ve ever been to the dentist (and, not to mom-out again, but I hope you have), you’ll recognize the name “fluoride” for being the stuff you swish for a healthy, happy mouth. In essence, fluoride is a tooth-fortifying property commonly found in many oral care products. “Fluoride is an ion that helps replace minerals in teeth,” says dentist Nammy Patel, DDS, of Green Dentistry. “Teeth are made with calcium and phosphate, and fluoride helps make your teeth stronger and more resistant to decay.”
Research has consistently shown that fluoride can reduce the risk of cavities in both children and adults. But dentist Brian Harris, DDS, points out it might not be the right choice for everyone. “Recent studies have suggested that fluoride is a human developmental neurotoxicant, which can affect the development of intelligence in children,” he says.
It’s also possible to have a fluoride allergy or intolerance. Dr. Harris says most common allergic reactions to fluoride are hives, dermatitis (which includes skin irritations like rashes), and stomatitis (inflammation of the oral tissues). “Some people can also experience gastrointestinal issues, but it’s not as common,” he says. “To verify an actual allergy, it is important to get properly tested.”
And if you do have a reason to use toothpaste without fluoride, Dr. Harris says you can still have a healthy oral-care routine by using low-abrasive, fluoride-free toothpaste. But you still need to, you know, do the work of brushing and flossing daily to prevent cavities.
“The action of brushing and flossing is absolutely the best way to prevent cavities by removing the bacteria and acids from the teeth that actually cause the cavities,” says Dr. Harris. “When you do see your dentist every six months, have them do a topical fluoride treatment only if you’re cavity prone, and assuming that there isn’t a fluoride allergy—everything in moderation.”
No matter the reason, though, if you’re in the market for toothpaste without fluoride, you certainly have options that can be included in a totally healthy oral-care routine. Below, find some of our (strangely delicious) favorites.
Looking for a toothpaste without fluoride? Try one of these 7 options.
These adorable bite-sized toothpaste bits have a major sustainability factor: no disposable plastic tube! They’re also super-cute and simple to use. Just pop one in your mouth and you’ll be brush-ready. It’s worth noting that among Bite’s variety of flavors is a limited-edition “Champagne,” so feel free to grab that if you want to feel fancy.
I have a deep fondness for Rael, a hygiene marketplace that ensures you get the best-of-the-best in skin care, menstrual products, and more. I’d be remiss not to give the brand snaps for its innovative toothpaste as well; it comes in two formulas—gel and liquid—is for your teeth, and, TBH, looks cute on on a shelf.
Public Goods’ minimalist tube doesn’t let fluoride, parabens, or phthalates come to the party. Instead, it very simply features a touch of peppermint essential oil for flavor, alongside an array of carefully selected natural ingredients. Give it a go if eccentric flavoring feels a little froufrou to you.
Lebon just looks luxe and very artfully mixes Moroccan mint with a slew of tastes. Rhythm Is Love features ylang-ylang, making for an absolutely gourmet oral-care experience.
Tom’s of Maine is a pretty common main squeeze when it comes to fluoride-free toothpaste. It’s been around for over 40 years, making it a legacy player in the pared-down oral-care game. It’s also easy find if you just need to stock up quick at your local drug store.
Natural Smile Products produce (you guessed it!) all-natural, vegan, ethically created products, with a delightful selection of toothpastes. Arriving in adorable little containers, you can choose between four flavors: mint and charcoal, cinnamon and clove, vanilla and lavender, and ginger and turmeric. Or, don’t choose at all—the sampler allows you to stock up and suss out your favorite taste!
Finally there’s Schmidt’s, a lovely vitamin-infused concoction that you can squeze onto your bristles. This jasmine and spearmint combo isn’t just an elegant mix; it also features a mini line of plant-powered toothpaste for kids.
Ultimately, the choice in what to look for in a toothpaste isn’t as simple as demonizing fluoride or saying you must use this or that. Try to figure out what works best for you, and know you have some delicious options to test out. And ,of course, if you’re not sure what makes most sense for you (or you’re feeling tooth sensitivity or any other pain when brushing), consult with a dentist, stat.
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The Viral MacKenzie-Childs Teapot is Now Available in Pantone’s Color of The Year
Inspired by Pantone’s 2025 color of the year, MacKenzie-Childs’ Mocha Check is the new pattern shoppers are scrambling to buy. There’s the iconic teapot, obviously, but there’s so much more. From salt and pepper shakers to the cutest clock, we’ve rounded up our favorite items from the MacKenzie-Childs Mocha Check collection.
The Viral MacKenzie-Childs Teapot is Now Available in Pantone’s Color of The Year
Inspired by Pantone’s 2025 color of the year, MacKenzie-Childs’ Mocha Check is the new pattern shoppers are scrambling to buy. There’s the iconic teapot, obviously, but there’s so much more. From salt and pepper shakers to the cutest clock, we’ve rounded up our favorite items from the MacKenzie-Childs Mocha Check collection.
Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission
Checkered motifs have dominated Instagram feeds in practically every form, from floor tiles to textiles. But if you don’t have a renovation in the works or even a plan to invest in a new rug, there’s a low-commitment way to incorporate the trend into your home decor. MacKenzie-Childs’ popular hand-painted ceramics are an easy and stunning option, with the brand’s checkered teapot going viral on TikTok. You’ve undoubtedly seen the black and white checkered teapot on at least one home influencer’s stove, but a new color is stealing the spotlight.
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Inspired by Pantone’s 2025 color of the year, MacKenzie-Childs’ Mocha Check is the new pattern shoppers are scrambling to buy. It’s softer, warmer, and perfect for neutral lovers who prefer a quiet palette. Obviously, there’s the iconic teapot, but there’s so much more. From cream and sugar set to the cutest pitcher, we’ve rounded up our favorite items from the MacKenzie-Childs Mocha Check collection—some of which are on sale! And shop the full line at QVC now.
If you’ve been meaning to buy a tea kettle, you can’t go wrong with this beauty. The size is perfect for a bigger household or for someone who loves to host. The ornate brass details, glass finial, and whimsical shape lend a Mad Hatter tea vibe that’s hard to resist. It has a nine-inch diameter at the base and is 13 inches tall, but it also comes in a two-quart size for $149 as well if you want it a bit smaller.
This set of canisters comes in three sizes: small (38 oz), medium (48 oz), and large (64 oz). Use them to stash everything from coffee beans to collagen powder. They’re chic enough to deserve a spot on your countertops, but you can also display them on a coffee bar or in a pantry.
Use this pretty pitcher to hold everything from fresh-squeezed juice to a bouquet. It’s an exceptional housewarming gift, but we also wouldn’t blame you for keeping it all to yourself.
This serving bowl has a 13-cup capacity, making it destined to be the star of your next dinner party. We love that the signature check pattern is on the inside only, so more of it is revealed as the dish is served.
While you typically would have to buy the creamer pitcher and sugar bowl pieces separately, QVC is offering both as a set for an incredible deal. Shoppers love how the lip of the pitcher catches every drip, making it easy and mess-free to pour.
Whether you’re using these petite plates for salad or a slice of cake, we won’t judge. The set would be equally beautifully set with coordinating plates or mixed and matched with neutral plates you already have.
While this doesn’t fall into the ceramics category we would be remiss to leave out this stunning table runner. Drape it on top of a marble or wood dining table or layer it on top of a solid-toned tablecloth for added texture, pattern, and color.
There are approximately five thousand days in the month of January—and yet somehow February (and its mid-month celebration of *all things love*) always creeps up on you. But don’t panic: The latest TikTok trend has you covered this Valentine’s Day, whether you’re showering your romantic partner, all your besties, or yourself with TLC.
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At 1.2 billion TikTok views and counting, bae baskets are making a major splash, and for good reason. The concept isn’t complicated: Put together a care package of sorts, filled with simple-but-swoon-worthy goodies that feel unique and personal to your recipient. It’s a super thoughtful (not to mention low-effort) way to show your A team you notice and care about the things that bring them joy—and the best part? It can be totally wallet-friendly, and definitely doesn’t seem like you waited until the last possible second to grab them a gift.
To get you inspired to build your own Valentine’s Day gift basket, we scoured the shelves at CVS—because nothing can beat the convenience of CVS if you’re a last-minute shopper—and rounded up eight essentials that anyone on your love list is guaranteed to appreciate and *actually* use. Think: cozy pillows for your favorite homebody, candles and beauty products for the self-care connoisseur, and plenty of sweet treats for, well, everyone.
Bonus: They’re all under $25—which you can brag about to your friends who love to budget, or keep as your best-kept secret (we won’t tell)—and with CVS ExtraCare, you can get additional savings and Extrabucks back on tons of Valentine’s Day finds. So grab a wicker box, a shower caddy, or a canvas bag, and start filling bae baskets for every love in your life (reminder: that includes you).
Start your bae basket with a festive and romantic base (extra points for one that fills up some space). This white, faux fur pillow is a fun seasonal add to any couch, bed, or cozy chair, and serves as an understated invitation to snuggle.
You can never have enough candles, and this soy blend—made with rose and tonka for a warm, sweet, and spicy scent that’ll linger in any space—serves as a reminder to relax and relish in a little self-care. Mood lighting, activated.
Keep the self-care session going strong with healing bath salts that help relax the body and moisturize the skin (and they smell like summertime). The hibiscus and berry extracts form a soothing foam and give the tub a red tint that feels *very* seasonally appropriate. Feeling fancy? Toss in some rose petals to really give your bath-themed basket some extra pizzazz.
There’s no greater love than BFF love—and adding friendship bracelets to your bae basket is a sweet way to acknowledge that. Gift your #1 this pack of eight, dish them out to your closest crew, or stack them all on your own wrist (because, ICYMI, it’s very cool to be your own best pal).
The TikToksphere loves bae baskets almost as much as it loves Stanley tumblers. Skip the investment and nestle this heart-fluttering dupe into your care package for better hydration on Valentine’s Day and beyond. Toss in a couple boxes of Sweethearts Conversation Hearts to round out the theme.
A new tube of lip tint will have all your beauty-loving besties blowing kisses. This long-lasting formula from Maybelline glides on smoothly and leaves a soft, matte finish on your pout—and it comes in 10 buildable and blendable shades. From February 9 to 15, you can get $6 Extrabucks when you buy two tubes, so go ahead and grab one for yourself.
No bae basket is complete without chocolate (yes, even for the S.O.s who claim they don’t like dessert). From coconut, to raspberry velvet, to sugar cookie, there’s a surprise filling for everyone in this box of 14 truffles.
No need to choose between chocolate or gummies this Valentine’s Day (or, um, ever). Instead, pair your Godiva chocolates with this heart-shaped carton of classic Haribo bears. With ExtraCare, you can buy one and get the second box 50 percent off. How sweet is that?
