Self care for moms.  It’s all the rage these days.  If you spend any time on social media, you’ve seen countless articles about it, I’m sure.  Why self care is important, how to fit self care in as a busy mom, easy ways to incorporate self care into your routines.  There are t-shirts reminding us that “self-care isn’t selfish” and it goes on and on.

And frankly, I don’t mind it.  I think there is value to it and I definitely agree that self-care is important.  Just like anything else though, I think that it exists on a spectrum and there are extremes on both ends.  And I think I fall somewhere right in the middle.

I don’t go get massages or pedicures on the reg.  I don’t even spend that much time alone.  But as we get ready to say goodbye to 2018 in just a few weeks, I can definitely say that I have learned the old adage rings true.  You cannot pour from an empty cup.  And while what fills each of our cups might be different, I’m learning how important it is to take care of myself so that I can be the best wife, mom, friend, etc.

This post is sponsored by Smile Brilliant and contains affiliate links, but as always, the content and opinions expressed are all mine.  Thanks for supporting brands that support the blog!

For me, self-care at the root level looks like making really basic, simple things a priority.  Things like making time to take a hot shower and dry my hair.  Spending time in prayer and Bible study.  Being intentional about spending time with friends.  Eating well and staying active.  Literally just taking care of myself.

And sure, those sound like very simple things – things that I should be doing anyway.  That’s because they are.  But y’all.  Being a mom is hard work.  And I cannot tell you how many times I have pushed so many of those things to the side to be sure that I was able to “get it all done.”  I don’t even know what “it all” is – it’s the dishes, working on the blog, picking up toys, washing clothes, cleaning bathrooms, waiting for Littlest to wake up knowing that he needs to nurse after his nap.  It’s all of it.  All those little things.

But all those things can make me feel crazy when I’m not taking care of myself.  It’s something that I’m continuing to learn and work on – not just for myself, but because I know that I need to show up for my family, too.  And I can best show up when I’m taking care of myself.

So, with all of that said, today, I want to tell you about one small change that we’ve recently made over here that I am LOVING.

WE GOT NEW TOOTHBRUSHES!

And maybe you’re thinking, excuse me, what? But hear me out.

I recently had to have two cavities filled – even though I am careful to always brush my teeth at least twice per day – and I’ve generally had pretty healthy teeth over the course of my life.  Since then, I’ve considered getting an electric toothbrush to up my dental hygiene game so I was thrilled when Smile Brilliant reached out to me to try their CariPRO electric toothbrush.

What is Smile Brilliant?

Smile Brilliant is an oral health company that is “committed to providing professional quality products at a price everyone can afford”.  Their team is made up of dental professionals with many years of experience and their toothbrushes and teeth whitening systems are top notch.  Not only that, but their CariPRO toothbrush comes with a 60 day trial and a 2 year warranty.  If you aren’t totally satisfied with the product, you can return it for a full refund within the trial period.  How’s that for customer service?

CariPRO Electric Toothbrush Review

Hubs and I each received a new CariPRO toothbrush and we’ve been using it each day, twice a day for the last couple of weeks and I can honestly say, it has been a game changer for the way I brush my teeth.

It has 5 different brush modes: Clean, White, Massage, Gum Care, and Sensitve, so you really get a full spectrum of care. I use the clean mode most often (you can use sensitive if you have sensitive teeth), and the others about 3 times per week.

The White mode is my favorite of the “extras” since it’s made specifically for removing surface stains (aka coffee stains around here).  It’s nice to have this built right into your toothbrush.  The Massage and Gum Care modes are more gentle and provide good stimulation and cleaning for your gumline.  These should be used along with another cleaning mode for complete care.  I use these modes almost every other day to help keep my gums healthy.

It even has a built in timer to let you know when you’ve brushed your teeth long enough.  Hubs commented that he’s sure he hasn’t been brushing his teeth long enough once he started paying attention to the timer. And to be honest, I’ve never really paid attention to how long I was brushing my teeth before either.

Another bonus?  Since I’ve been brushing with my CariPRO, I’ve been more motivated to floss often as well – since you know, I’m creating a new toothbrushing routine and all. I don’t think my dentist will be mad about that one little bit.

What’s Included with My CariPRO?

There are three purchase options for your CariPRO – the individual package, deluxe package, and the couples package.  Each package includes your CariPRO toothbrush, replacement heads, a wireless charging dock, 2 year warranty and 60 day free trial.  The deluxe package has 4 replacement heads versus just 2 in the individual package.  The couples package includes 2 toothbrushes and charging docks along with 4 replacement heads (2 for each toothbrush).

Replacement heads are also really affordable once it’s time to change your original heads.  This was a BIG consideration for me before I fell in love with the CariPRO.  I wanted to be sure it was something I was willing to (and able to afford to) maintain.  And at just $13 for 2 replacement heads – I am happy to report that CariPRO has my vote!

The Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a great electric toothbrush, that is both affordable and high quality, I HIGHLY recommend Smile Brilliant’s CariPRO toothbrush.  My mouth already feels healthier and my teeth a bit whiter from using it.  I’m proud to show my teeth off and I’m confident that they are being well taken care of.

Smile Brilliant CariPRO Giveaway & Coupon Code

And since we are smack dab in the middle of the holiday season, I’m partnering with Smile Brilliant to give one of you your very own CariPRO electric toothbrush!

All you have to do is click right here to enter to win.  It’s easy peasy – and doesn’t take very long AT ALL.  You’ll just need to enter your name and email address, that’s it!

You can also enter by copy and pasting this link into your browser: https://www.smilebrilliant.com/gb/livewellplaytogether

Or if you just can’t wait on the giveaway (I know you want to get your smile right before those Christmas photos), head over to Smile Brilliant right now and grab your toothbrush today!  You can save 20% off any of the CariPRO packages with the coupon code: livewellplaytogether20.

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What is one small thing that you have done recently to take care of yourself?  Tell me in the comments below!