Author: Billy Marks

Natural Toothpaste Options

Billy Marks

Natural toothpaste options are trending as people seek alternatives to traditional tubes that often contain ingredients like triclosan, which is linked to health issues. These formulas are free of additives, preservatives, synthetic sweeteners, and colors.

Toothpaste

Many are also made without ingredients sourced from animals, making them ideal for vegan and ovo-lacto vegetarian lifestyles. Here are a few popular options at The Little Homestead Company LLC.

Sodium bicarbonate is an all-purpose kitchen ingredient with many household uses. It’s famous for helping baked goods rise and as an antacid to treat indigestion, but it also has teeth-cleaning properties. This naturally occurring, fine white powder is mildly abrasive and can lighten extrinsic teeth stains and scrub away plaque biofilm. It also helps balance the acid level in the mouth, which can prevent demineralization, a process that strips calcium from tooth enamel.

Baking soda also has antibacterial properties, which can keep harmful bacteria from forming a sticky film called plaque on the surface of your teeth. This bacteria-rich biofilm can cause gum disease and tooth decay if it isn’t removed regularly with brushing. Brushing with baking soda disrupts the biofilm by creating a less acidic environment, making it difficult for bacteria to thrive in.

However, straight baking soda and baking soda paste aren’t as effective at preventing cavities and whitening as toothpaste containing fluoride. Plus, the texture can be harsh and unpleasant to your tongue.

If you want to try a natural toothpaste that uses baking soda but doesn’t contain the extra ingredients like glycerin, xylitol, artificial sweeteners or sodium lauryl sulfate, you can find many options at Walgreens. The company’s Natural Toothpaste Selection includes formulas formulated by dentists to remove toxins and provide a thorough clean. They feature a wide range of natural cleaning ingredients including hydrated silica, xylitol, organic aloe barbadensis leaf juice, jojoba oil, potassium cocoate and organic mentha piperita extract. The brand also features a few products with the mineral hydroxyapatite, which can remineralize teeth and strengthen enamel.

Xylitol

Xylitol is a natural sweetener and recommended by dentists and health professionals as a preferred alternative to sugar. It is a unique type of sugar alcohol that is found in many foods like grapes, strawberries and fruits and vegetables as well as some plants and has been approved by the FDA for use as a sweetener in toothpastes, chewing gums, mints and mouth rinses.

Unlike sugar, xylitol does not break down in the mouth and therefore does not promote tooth decay. In addition, it stimulates saliva production, which helps remineralize teeth and repair any damage caused by bacteria. Studies have shown that xylitol is effective in preventing dental caries and has been officially endorsed by six international dental associations.

When xylitol is consumed, it starves the bacteria that cause tooth decay by interfering with their ability to digest fermentable sugars and produce acid. It also prevents them from sticking to teeth surfaces and releasing the acid that destroys tooth enamel. Xylitol may also help to reverse existing tooth decay by maintaining a neutral pH level in the mouth.

This fluoride-free toothpaste from Risewell features cavity-fighting xylitol, breath-freshening peppermint and tea tree oils and gentle abrasives to get your teeth squeaky clean. It is also free of SLS, triclosan and gluten. A little goes a long way, so start with a pea-sized amount and use it twice a day to brush away plaque, stains and give your teeth that healthy glow. It also contains hydroxyapatite, which strengthens enamel and has even been known to reverse small cavities. It is also a great option for those who have xerostomia, a condition that results in a dry mouth. This can be a side effect of some medications (especially decongestants and antidepressants), aging, certain diseases and conditions (including Sjogren’s syndrome) or radiation therapy to the head and neck area.

Essential Oils

If you make an effort to avoid synthetic or unnatural ingredients in your food, then why not do the same with your oral care products? The good news is that there are plenty of natural toothpaste options out there that don’t skimp on cleaning power. Plus, they’re easy to find and often just as affordable as traditional tubes of toothpaste.

These alternatives veer away from ingredients like triclosan, which has been linked to health risks with long-term exposure. Many are also free of harmful chemicals and preservatives, as well as sodium lauryl sulfate (a detergent that foams up toothpaste). They’re typically a bit more expensive than a standard tube of toothpaste, but they do help you avoid the unnecessary toxins in most conventional products.

Many of these natural toothpaste alternatives come in the form of powders or tablets that you can chew up and brush with, or jars of creamy paste. This option from Designs for Health harnesses the power of nano hydroxyapatite for gum and enamel repair while eliminating all the yucky stuff. It’s fluoride-free, triclosan-free and comes in a 50% post-consumer recycled glass container.

If you’re unsure how to get started with this type of oral care, try combining baking soda with some of the essential oils that are known to clean teeth. For instance, peppermint oil is antibacterial and has a fresh, pleasant scent, and coconut oil is antifungal and a great moisturizer. Simply put a few drops of your chosen oil onto a moist toothbrush and scrub away! Then rinse your mouth and spit. The important thing is to keep brushing and flossing your teeth regularly to help prevent the buildup of plaque, which can lead to gum disease, cavities and even cancer. And, as always, be sure to visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a natural antibacterial that can help prevent gum disease and bad breath. It can also improve the condition of your teeth and help you spit out more food particles when brushing. It’s easy to find at most grocery stores, and it’s a great ingredient for homemade toothpaste recipes.

You can add melted coconut oil to baking soda and stir until the mixture is thick enough to stick in your mouth. You can even add xylitol and essential oils for flavor. Using coconut oil is an easy way to skip the foaming agents that are found in most traditional toothpaste, which may cause you to swallow more of the chemicals.

Many people choose to use natural toothpaste as a part of their daily oral hygiene routine. They may be concerned about the chemicals in regular toothpaste, or they might be following a vegan or ovo-lacto vegetarian lifestyle and don’t want to eat ingredients sourced from animals.

These toothpastes are often fluoride-free, which can be a good thing depending on your personal preference and dental health needs. Some natural options include Risewell’s fluoride-free toothpaste, which features hydroxyapatite to strengthen enamel and remineralize teeth, as well as cavity-fighting xylitol and breath-freshening peppermint and tea tree oils.

Another option is Dr. Bronner’s organic toothpaste, which has organic glycerin and organic cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, as well as calcium carbonate and xanthan gum. This toothpaste has a pleasant minty taste and gets your teeth squeaky clean.

If you’re interested in trying out a natural toothpaste, speak with your San Diego family dentist. He or she can provide you with personalized dental advice and recommendations that suit your unique needs.

Aloe Vera

This succulent plant has long been cultivated for its health, beauty and medicinal properties. The ancient Egyptians called it the “Plant of Immortality.” Aloe vera juice can be used to treat a variety of ailments including constipation and diabetes. It is also considered a natural laxative.

Many natural toothpastes contain aloe vera along with baking soda and other natural ingredients. They tend to veer away from artificial colors, chemicals, and preservatives as well as sodium lauryl sulfate, which can be irritating for some people. They are also free from gluten, making them suitable for people with celiac disease or other digestive issues. Additionally, they are often vegan or ovo-lacto vegetarian friendly.

The main reason to choose a natural toothpaste is for oral health and well-being. However, some brands don’t have fluoride, which is important for preventing tooth decay and is recommended by dentists. Some natural toothpastes have remineralizing ingredients, like hydroxyapatite to strengthen enamel. Others have organic ingredients that are better for the environment.

Natural toothpastes tend to be more expensive than their conventional counterparts, but they are a healthier choice for your teeth. Additionally, they can be more convenient than traditional toothpaste because you just chew or dissolve a tablet and then brush as normal. Some natural toothpastes can even be made into a gel, so you don’t need to rinse!

Water Damage Restoration – What You Need To Know

Billy Marks

Water damage restoration is a process that addresses structural damage and mold growth by removing standing water, sanitizing the area, and drying it out. It also includes replacing drywall and carpet padding that is unsalvageable.

It is best to use an IICRC-certified Restore Draper professional as they follow strict industry standards and regulations. They will inspect your property and determine the level of damage.

water damage restoration

Inspect The Damage

After shutting off the water and electricity, it’s important to inspect the damage. This is because wet materials can develop major problems like mold within 24 hours. Therefore, it’s important to start the restoration process as quickly as possible. Inspecting the damage helps you determine the full scope of the work that needs to be done.

A water damage inspection starts with identifying all areas where there is water intrusion. This includes assessing wet ceilings and looking for signs of water damage such as watermarks and paint that is peeling, bubbling, or crumbling. It’s also important to note any areas where there is a lot of wood warping, especially if the wood is structural.

Once the inspector has identified all areas that have been affected by water damage, they can begin the process of removing the excess water. This is usually done using large pumps and vacuums that can remove gallons of water at a time. In addition, the experts can use a moisture meter to measure the amount of moisture in the walls and wood.

If the level of water damage is class 4, it will require extensive drying and replacement of materials. This is often done by a restoration company that is certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC).

For less severe water damage, the repairs can be made without the need to replace materials. However, if the damaged materials are structural, they will need to be replaced as soon as possible. This is especially true for any wood that has developed a mold or mildew problem. This can be replaced with new, high-density wood to prevent any further damage.

Shut Off The Water

If you notice water damage, you should first shut off the power to any areas that are affected by the water. This is a critical step because electricity and standing water do not mix well. You should also make sure to turn off the main water supply line to the house if possible. This will prevent any additional water from entering your home, and it will stop the leak in its tracks.

Next, you should drain as much of the water as possible. This can be done by using sponges, mops, and rags. You should also remove any wet rugs, and you should try to ventilate the area. This will help to reduce the risk of mold and mildew development.

You should also check for any electrical hazards in the area. If you see any exposed wires, you should stay away from the area until a professional can inspect it.

Water damage restoration professionals use a variety of equipment to inspect the level of damage and determine what needs to be done. This may include submersible pumps if there is a lot of water, wet-dry vacs for smaller areas, or simply buckets and mops if the damage isn’t too extensive.

Once the inspection is complete, the water damage restoration company will begin the cleaning and drying process. They will use a variety of tools and equipment, including fans and dehumidifiers, to eliminate excess moisture. They will also use disinfectants to sanitize the area.

If you are dealing with serious water damage, it’s best to reach out to a water damage restoration company right away. They will have the skills, tools, and experience to tackle the job quickly and efficiently. They will also be able to detect hidden issues that you might not have noticed, such as mold or sewage contamination.

Disinfect the Area

As the water damage repair process continues it’s important to disinfect the area. Standing water doesn’t just damage the structural integrity of your home, it can also breed bacteria and mold spores that can cause serious health problems for occupants. To help prevent this, use a bleach solution to wipe down surfaces and deodorize the area.

If you’re able to, open all the doors and windows in the affected areas to promote air circulation and speed up the drying process. You can also use fans and dehumidifiers to help. It’s also a good idea to wear gloves, head protection, and rubber boots while working in the area.

Once the area is dry, it’s time to start assessing the damage. Start by looking for any signs of moisture stains or swelling. If you see any of these, it’s likely that the materials and items in the area are water-damaged and will need to be removed and destroyed.

While it’s difficult to part with personal belongings, anything that can’t be washed or disinfected should be thrown away. This includes mattresses, pillows, rugs, cosmetics, books, baby toys, and even drywall. This is because most of these items come into contact with sewage and flood water, which can cause severe health problems.

It’s best to leave the cleanup and restoration of your home’s water damage to an IICRC-certified professional. These experts know how to thoroughly clean and dry your home, restoring it to its pre-damage condition. They follow industry best practices to ensure that the job is done correctly and safely. Plus, they use environmentally friendly cleaning and drying methods that don’t harm the environment or the occupants of your home.

Dry The Area

Depending on the extent of the water damage, different types of equipment may be required to dry out the area. Water damage restoration companies typically use air movers and dehumidifiers to accelerate the drying process and prevent mold growth. These pieces of equipment are also able to detect humidity levels and automatically turn off when the moisture level in the air is below the target amount.

When it comes to selecting the right water damage restoration company, it is important to find out how long they have been in business and if they have any references from previous clients. Ask potential companies what their price range is and whether they offer any discounts. You should also find out what type of equipment they use and if it is up to industry standards.

Once the water has been removed, it is time to start drying out the affected area. This is a slow and tedious process, but it is essential to prevent further damage to the property. The longer moisture is allowed to sit, the more it can penetrate drywall and other materials, which will make it much more difficult to dry.

To speed up the drying process, it is often necessary to remove any items that can be reused. This can include furniture, clothing, documents, and electronics. This process is known as a pack-out and is often covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy.

If there is any remaining water in the structure, a wet/dry shop vacuum can be used to remove it. It is also important to check the walls with a moisture meter before refinishing them. If the walls are not completely dry, it can cause a lot of damage to your home or commercial property.

Clean Up

As soon as water damage occurs, it is important to act quickly. This will help prevent further damage to your property, protect your belongings, and save you money on unnecessary repairs.

The first step is to identify and stop the source of the water. This may be as simple as shutting off the main water valve if the flood is caused by a leaking pipe or it could require filling and placing sandbags to keep water from flowing into your home if you are dealing with river, lake, or pond flooding.

Once the water is stopped, the next step in water restoration is to extract the moisture from the property. This is done using commercial-grade pumps and vacuums that can remove gallons of water in a short amount of time. Once the water is removed, the area must be thoroughly dried. This is often accomplished by using air movers and dehumidifiers to circulate the air and remove moisture from the property.

Finally, the area must be cleaned and sanitized to prevent the growth of mold and other harmful microorganisms. This can be done by using disinfectants and antimicrobial treatments. In addition, any materials that have been destroyed by the water should be removed and replaced as soon as possible to prevent structural damage from occurring.

While it is possible to do some water damage restoration on your own, it is always recommended that you call a professional. Not only will they have the equipment necessary to restore your property, but they will also be able to determine whether the damage is caused by something that can be repaired or if it is a serious issue that requires the replacement of materials and reconstruction. In addition, they are trained to follow proper safety protocols when working in a water-logged environment.

Why Hire a Plumber

Billy Marks

Plumber Woodland Hills install, maintain, and repair the water, sewage, and drainage systems that keep our everyday lives running smoothly. They work in various environments, from homes to industrial settings.

Plumber

The skills necessary for this career include technical knowledge of pipes, tubing, fixtures, critical thinking; and physical stamina. They also need to understand how to read blueprints and building codes.

The plumbing system is crucial to the operation of your home. It takes away waste, provides hot and cold water, and regulates indoor climate through pipes, valves, fixtures and other components — all of which need to be installed properly. Plumbers do this work in both new construction and existing homes. They must have a high school diploma or equivalent and undergo an apprenticeship, which includes both classroom study and on-the-job training. They must also pass an exam to earn their certification.

Most plumbers use a combination of tools and techniques to install plumbing systems. They may hand-dig trenches for pipe runs, use power tools to cut and bend metal tubing, and solder joints together using a torch. They need to understand the building code and all relevant regulations for their area of jurisdiction in order to make sure that their work complies with local standards.

One of the most important skills for a plumber to have is attention to detail. This is because even a small mistake can lead to significant problems down the road. Other important skills include the ability to follow directions and work as part of a team. Many plumbing jobs require collaboration with other professionals, such as builders and architects. Therefore, the plumber must be able to communicate clearly with these individuals and work well under pressure.

Plumbers must also be familiar with a variety of pipe materials, such as copper, steel, PVC and PEX. They must know how each type of pipe works and its advantages and disadvantages. This knowledge helps them choose the right pipe for a job and ensure that it is properly installed.

Rough-in plumbing is the process of installing pipes before drywall and trim are added. This phase is the most time-consuming and messy, as the plumber must cut holes in the drywall to place the pipes. During this stage, the plumber must install supply lines for water and gas, drain lines for waste and vents, and fixtures like toilets, sinks, bathtubs and showers. The plumber must also connect these pipes to the main line.

Maintenance

Performing regular maintenance on plumbing fixtures, pipes, and appliances is an important part of a plumber’s job. This can include cleaning drains, fixing leaks, and ensuring that all parts of the plumbing system are functioning properly. It is also the plumber’s responsibility to identify any potential problems and repair them before they become larger issues, such as a burst pipe or a water heater that is not heating properly.

Another significant aspect of a plumber’s job is installing new plumbing systems in residential and commercial settings. This includes working from blueprints and architectural plans to install all required plumbing infrastructure, including piping, fixtures, and appliances. It is the plumber’s duty to ensure that all components are compatible and installed according to industry standards and building codes.

In addition to piping, plumbers are often responsible for installing and maintaining gas lines and sewer systems. Because of this, they must be familiar with local laws and regulations regarding the installation and maintenance of these systems. Plumbers should also have strong customer service skills, as they often work directly with clients to assess their needs and provide them with information about different solutions.

In order to perform their duties, plumbers must have a wide range of tools and equipment at their disposal. Some of these tools are more common, such as wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers, while others are more specialized such as video cameras for inspecting pipes, hydro jets for unclogging drains, and high-pressure water pumps for sewer line repairs. Because they are often exposed to harsh chemicals and dangerous materials, plumbers must use proper safety practices when handling tools and working on construction sites. Additionally, they must be able to work well under pressure and in tight spaces. For these reasons, it is recommended that prospective plumbers complete a trade school program or an apprenticeship, which provides them with the necessary training and experience to perform their jobs safely and effectively.

Troubleshooting

As much as we rely on our plumbing systems to provide clean, potable water and remove waste, it’s not uncommon for things to go wrong. Some problems are easily fixed by a do-it-yourselfer, but others require the expertise of a plumber to resolve. Knowing a little bit about common plumbing issues and how to fix them can help you save money on service calls.

Many of the most common plumbing problems are associated with fixtures like toilets, sinks and bathtubs. Common troubleshooting steps include checking for visible leaks, listening for dripping sounds and flushing the toilet to see if it drains properly.

A clogged drain or toilet is usually a sign of a bigger issue, such as a buildup of hair or food scraps that can cause sewage back-up and create dangerous, foul odors in the home. A plumber may need to use power tools to clear the clog. A sewer system clog can be even more difficult to diagnose and repair, since it can happen anywhere from the septic tank to the house’s main line.

If you hear rumbling noises coming from your pipes, turn off your home’s water supply immediately and call a plumber for an inspection and possible repairs. Rumbling noises can indicate that a pipe has ruptured or is about to burst. Foam pipe insulation available at home centers can help prevent a ruptured pipe by cushioning the impact and absorbing vibrations.

Other common plumbing services include fixing water heaters, garbage disposals and repairing showers and tubs. A plumbing contractor can also install new bathroom and kitchen fixtures, such as toilets, faucets, sinks, showerheads and garbage disposals.

Plumbers must have excellent customer service skills to interact with clients, as well as strong analytical problem-solving abilities. They need to be able to listen carefully to their customers’ concerns and explain complex plumbing issues in simple terms. They should also have physical stamina and dexterity to handle tools and work in tight spaces. If they work with hazardous materials, such as lead, asbestos or chemicals, plumbers need to follow strict safety guidelines.

Repair

Plumbing problems are inevitable, and while some may be easy for homeowners to fix, many require the expertise of a plumber. A plumber can handle a wide variety of repair issues, from fixing a leaky faucet to replacing a sewer line.

Some of the most common repairs that plumbers deal with are clogs, pipe leaks and poor water quality. These problems are often caused by the buildup of food, hair and other insoluble materials in drains and pipes. The best way to prevent these problems is by practicing good hygiene, including regularly cleaning drains and removing any items that could clog them. However, if you do experience a clog or pipe leak, it’s important to call a plumber right away. They will be able to use more advanced tools to remove the clog and restore proper function to your pipes.

Leaking pipes are another common issue that plumbers must address. Whether it’s due to age, corrosion or other factors, leaking pipes can cause serious damage to your home and lead to costly repairs. A plumber will be able to diagnose the problem and implement a permanent solution, such as replacing the affected section of pipe or installing a new fixture.

Homeowners can sometimes fix leaking pipes by using a pipe repair sleeve, which is available at most hardware stores. However, this is only a temporary fix and will not stop the leak once it starts. For more permanent repairs, a plumber will need to install a new section of pipe.

Replacing a section of pipe requires more advanced plumbing skills, such as cutting and soldering. Plumbers will need to make sure they have shut off the water supply before starting any work and take precautions when working with flammable materials such as wood, gas lines and wires. They will also need to protect themselves by wearing gloves, goggles and a face mask. This work can be dangerous, especially when working with corroded metal pipes that are exposed to the elements. A plumber will know how to safely tackle these projects and minimize the risk of injury or death.