Find out more about Waken, a range of natural and eco-friendly dental products dedicated to doing things better.
Waken was founded in 2019 with a few questions:
Why is mouthwash liquid blue?
- Why does it burn when used?
- Why does toothpaste foam so much?
- Why does so much oral care packaging end up in landfill?
These questions highlighted the traditional practices within oral care that seemed out of place if a company was starting with a clean sheet.
The founders of Waken, Simon Duffy and Rhodri Ferrier, were inspired to challenge these conventions, drawing on their experience in creating innovative packaging and unique formulations for Bulldog Skincare, a company they successfully launched in 2007.
‘We felt there had to be a better way,’ says Duffy. ‘We were surprised to find so many advances and ideas from other personal care categories that hadn’t made their way into dental products.’
What kind of products has Waken developed?
Waken has developed a range of highly effective products by working closely with dentists and formulation chemists. Their exceptional whitening toothpaste, free from hydrogen peroxide, and alcohol-free mouthwashes that provide 12-hour protection for enamel are just some examples.
The inclusion of fluoride at the recommended levels (1,450 ppm F in the toothpaste and 250 ppm F in the mouthwashes) underscores their commitment to dental performance and makes them easy for dentists to recommend.
Not only does Waken create products that perform, but they also push the boundaries of clean formulations. Waken’s toothpastes don’t contain titanium dioxide, which is typically used just for the white colouring, but is mined at a big environmental cost, or sodium laureth sulfate (SLS), the harsh foaming agent that some patients find challenging. The mouthwashes are also free of unnecessary artificial colours and dyes.
‘If it’s not essential to performance it doesn’t go into the product,’ says Duffy.
Natural mint extracts are a cornerstone of Waken’s product formulations, and for good reason. Unlike synthetic flavourings, natural mint extracts offer a pure, authentic taste that enhances the overall sensory experience of using oral care products. These extracts are derived from real mint leaves, ensuring a refreshing and invigorating flavour without the use of artificial additives.
Making a difference
Sustainability is a vital part of Waken’s mission. They recognise the environmental challenges facing our planet and are dedicated to minimising their impact. By prioritising environmentally friendly practices and materials, Waken ensures that their commitment to the planet is reflected in every aspect of their operations.
Waken’s product and packaging decisions underpin these sustainability efforts.
Their toothpaste tubes are made from recycled and endlessly recyclable aluminium, aiming to prevent waste from ending up in landfills. The toothpaste cartons are crafted from FSC-certified cardboard, promoting responsible forest management. Additionally, their mouthwash bottles are made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic, repurposing materials that would otherwise contribute to plastic pollution. Their expanding dental floss is made from recycled water bottles while the cardboard packaging is also the product dispenser.
On every Waken product, you will find the line ‘Don’t just clean. Care.’ This mantra encapsulates Waken’s philosophy, driving everything they do. They empower consumers to make choices that benefit both their oral health and the planet.
‘We have seen so many dental practices working to improve their environmental footprint and we are delighted that we can help to deliver this,’ commented Duffy.
Waken invites everyone to join their journey. Together, they believe they can make a difference, one smile at a time.
Waken products are available from dhb Oral Healthcare. To find out more about the brand, visit wakencare.com.
To find out how to purchase products for your practice, visit dhb.co.uk/brands/waken.
This article is sponsored by Waken.
