Gum Control to Major Health
Half of all adults have gum disease. That’s not a typo—it’s a staggering stat with real consequences, from tooth loss and chronic inflammation to increased risks of heart disease and diabetes. But despite how common and serious it is, most oral care routines aren’t cutting it. Traditional products like toothpaste and mouthwash take a one-size-fits-all approach, while more advanced tools (like water flossers) are too time-consuming or complex for daily use. Many also disrupt the oral microbiome—often doing more harm than good.
Enter Ediccare—a Vancouver-based startup on a mission to simplify gum health. Their science-backed gel is designed to deliver targeted care to gum tissue using safe, microbiome-friendly ingredients. Developed by a team with decades of experience in pharmaceutical and personal care formulation, it’s a gentle, effective solution that actually fits into real life. Just apply with a soft toothbrush—no gimmicks, no extra steps—and get on with your day.
Brushing with Success
What They’ve Done: Ediccare has developed a first-of-its-kind topical gel formulated specifically to support gum health without disrupting the oral microbiome. With regulatory compliance secured, IP protected, and launch plans in place for Canada and the U.S., they’re primed for market entry. Their founding team brings deep expertise in pharmaceutical R&D, commercialization, and dental innovation, supported by an advisory board with strong clinical and business development credentials.
Why NVBC: Encouraged by mentors and peers in the startup ecosystem, Ediccare entered the 2025 New Ventures BC Competition, presented by Innovate BC, to refine their business strategy, connect with investors and partners, and gather expert feedback. It’s a platform they see as essential for scaling their science-driven solution and raising awareness of a widespread, yet underserved health issue.
Up Next: The team is focused on building traction through clinical validation and real-world evidence to strengthen their positioning. Their go-to-market strategy centers on professional outreach and referrals to drive adoption, while they explore strategic partnerships and expand regulatory access. Their ultimate goal? To make Ediccare the go-to solution for daily gum care.
By targeting the gumline—an often overlooked area in oral care—they’ve created a science-informed solution that integrates effortlessly into daily routines.
Looking ahead, Ediccare is preparing to raise investment to support its next phase of growth. With a seasoned team, strong IP, regulatory clearance, and early evidence of efficacy, the company is well-positioned to lead a new category in oral care. For investors, it’s a chance to support a differentiated, science-driven innovation with global relevance—and real potential to improve health outcomes, one brush at a time.
Meet The Team
Rita Zhao, Co-Founder and CEO
Fun Fact: Ediccare was born after a fruitless trip to Shoppers Drug Mart in search of real gum care—and a growing fear of gum surgery. With nothing gentle, effective, or microbiome-friendly on the shelves, Rita, a pharmaceutical scientist, took matters into her own hands. In a world where one size doesn’t fit all, oral care has focused almost entirely on teeth. But our gums deserve better—and Ediccare is here to deliver the gentle, effective care they’ve long been missing.
Xiaowei (Shirley) Teng, Co-Founder and Fractional CSO
Fun Fact: Shirley is a lifelong health enthusiast and foodie who’s always experimenting in her kitchen—applying years of pharmaceutical and health science expertise. Because for food lovers, gum health isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Claudia Dietrich, Co-Founder and Fractional CCO
Fun Fact: Claudia Dietrich is a dentist with a PhD in biomaterials who loves turning science into real-life solutions for healthier smiles. After a postdoc at UBC’s Faculty of Dentistry, where she created smart dental materials with antimicrobial powers, she’s been leading projects that blend microbiology, formulation, and innovation. With patents, papers, and a passion for making oral care easier and better, Claudia focuses on bioactive strategies that help gums heal and keep patients (and dentists) happy.
Company Cheatsheet:
City: Richmond
Founded: September 27, 2023
Sector: Life Sciences
