Fluoride is the standard ingredient in cavity-fighting toothpastes — and it’s probably part of your current oral care routine — but modern oral care brands are drawing attention to a science-backed alternative: hydroxyapatite. . Although you won’t find the ingredient in most major drugstore brand formulas, hydroxyapatite has more than four decades of research and dental applications to back it up. More than that, it’s non-toxic and biocompatible, making it a viable option for those looking for natural oral care solutions. Read on to learn more about this dentist-approved ingredient and find the best hydroxyapatite toothpastes.
“Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is the primary component of enamel and one of the most studied biomaterials in medicine and dentistry,” says Dr. Jonathan B. Levine, chief dentist of the wellness brand. Mouthpiece of Lenny Kravitz, Twice. “It makes up the main mineral part of bones and teeth – in fact more than 90% of the base of enamel.” As the outermost layer of teeth and the hardest substance in the human body, maintaining healthy enamel is essential to your oral and overall well-being. It protects the internal elements of teeth against bacteria and decay, which when exposed can lead to cavities, serious infections, gum disease and even tooth loss.
Medical applications of hydroxyapatite were pioneered by NASA in the 1970s when astronauts lost minerals in their teeth and bones due to lack of gravity in space. In 1974, the Japanese company Sangi Co. Ltd. acquired a NASA patent to use hydroxyapatite in dentistry, eventually creating the world’s first nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste in 1980 and patenting the ingredient in 1990.
“HAp doesn’t have the controversial issues of too much fluoride and is safer in many people’s minds,” says Levine. (Although the dentist notes that because we don’t swallow toothpaste, fluoride is “100% safe to use and necessary for some people who need the strong efficacy for weaker enamel that fluoride provides.” )
“In small particle size – micro or nano – HAp helps to form a protective layer on the enamel and cementum root surface,” he continues. This is a process called remineralization, where the hydroxyapatite binds to the enamel and fills the tubules (microscopic channels that go inside the tooth and can cause sensitivity when exposed). According to Levine, numerous studies have shown that hydroxyapatite aids in the remineralization of initial small decomposition and “has greater efficacy than fluoride.”
Hydroxyapatite can be an alternative to fluoride, but it’s also safe to use with fluoride, and some toothpaste formulas combine the two ingredients. “Hydroxyapatite and fluoride are minerals that can repair the damage caused by tooth decay,” says Dr. Chris Salierno, Chief Dental Officer at Tend. “Fluoride can kill bacteria, while hydroxyapatite prevents bacteria from sticking to teeth.”
Remineralization of tooth enamel is the main benefit of hydroxyapatite. By strengthening the enamel, the teeth are better protected against plaque, which can cause cavities and gum disease. Although fluoride also protects against tooth decay, it does not contain calcium or phosphate. These minerals are found in hydroxyapatite and tooth enamel, which further helps prevent tooth decay. “[Hydroxyapatite] works behind the scenes to prevent cavities from forming or progressing,” says Salierno.
Because hydroxyapatite occurs naturally in our bodies, it is non-toxic and biocompatible, unlike fluoride. This also makes it safe for children who might accidentally swallow toothpaste.
Although you won’t see the benefits of hydroxyapatite — tooth enamel is semi-translucent, and Levine says “tooth remineralization happens at the micron level” — you might be able to feel it. Hydroxyapatite helps relieve tooth sensitivity by filling in the aforementioned tubules, which are basically microscopic pathways to the nerves of the teeth. With fewer exposed tubules, you will feel less sensitivity and discomfort to touch, food, and temperature.
A blend of vitamins A, C and E, plus remineralizing hydroxyapatite, make this fluoride-free toothpaste a healthy choice for your oral health. It also contains activated charcoal and baking soda to whiten teeth.
Tend’s enamel-friendly toothpaste was created with the help of the company’s dentists and hygienists, so you know it’s good for your mouth. “Our Tender toothpaste has been designed with low abrasiveness, which means it’s very gentle on your enamel, but it also combines both hydroxyapatite and fluorinated minerals for maximum interference with cavities. [bacteria]Salierno says.
While Boka’s top-selling non-toxic Ela Mint toothpaste is sold out, those adventurous enough to steer clear of minty oral care can try the Lavender Lemon flavor, which reviewers say tastes sweet and sweet. zesty. It’s made with nano-hydroxyapatite (the synthetic version of hydroxyapatite) to remineralize and restore enamel, xylitol to fight bacteria, and antioxidant-rich natural extracts.
Instead of using numbing potassium nitrate to temporarily help sensitive teeth, Davids Fluoride-Free Nano-Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste strengthens and repairs enamel. Over time, this blocks the holes in your teeth – which are the passageways to the nerves that cause sensitivity – so you have a healthier mouth and a stronger smile. The toothpaste also comes in a metal tube with a tube key, so you can get every last drop before rinsing and recycling the packaging.
For those who take their oral care seriously, vVardis Long Lasting Toothpaste is an investment. Although the price is high, the luxury toothpaste not only protects your enamel, it also helps repair it thanks to a fluoride-enriched hydroxyapatite formula with natural ingredients. Plus, it won’t irritate sensitive teeth and gums and comes in eco-friendly packaging.
Another sustainable option, this plastic-free nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste comes in tablet form. Just bite down and brush with a damp toothbrush to turn it into a frothy paste. Erythritol and Xylitol fight cavity-causing bacteria, while Nano-Hydroxyapatite repairs your enamel and Zinc Citrate fights bad breath.
RiseWell’s hydroxyapatite toothpaste keeps teeth clean with other natural ingredients, like wild mint and citrus oil extracts, to whiten and strengthen teeth. It has a mild mint flavor that many reviewers love.