Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste
Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is a naturally occurring mineral that makes up over 90% of tooth enamel. Hydroxyapatite toothpastes are gaining popularity as an alternative to fluoride for preventing cavities and remineralizing teeth. If you haven’t heard about it, here’s your chance to learn more!
By Dr. Stephanie Vera, DDS
Challenging fluoride’s top spot as the go-to for cavity prevention, hydroxyapatite products are a fairly new entry in the world of oral health. But have you heard of hydroxyapatite? Hydroxyapatite is a form of calcium that makes up the majority of our natural tooth structure, and it is the reason why tooth enamel is the strongest substance in the human body! Using science-backed studies, modern oral care brands are starting to use hydroxyapatite more when developing natural oral care solutions.
How does Hydroxyapatite Work?
When nano- or micro-hydroxyapatite minerals touch the surface of the teeth, it forms a protective layer on the enamel or exposed root surfaces of teeth. Because of its biomimetic abilities, the hydroxyapatite fills the tiny pores of the outer tooth and begins the body’s process of re-mineralization, repairing any areas of weakened enamel and making it harder for bacteria to stick to the outer surface of the teeth.
Why Use Hydroxyapatite?
The biggest benefit of hydroxyapatite is the ability to repair the teeth, and to do so without any known side effects! Strengthening the tooth enamel can prevent cavities and minimize tooth sensitivity. Also, since hydroxyapatite lowers the ability of bacteria to stick to the surface of the teeth, it can also reduce plaque and resulting gum disease.
While hydroxyapatite can be used an as alternative to fluoride, it is safe to combine the two ingredients! Both fluoride and hydroxyapatite minerals can be used to re-mineralize the outer layer of the teeth, and while hydroxyapatite prevents the bacteria from adhering to the teeth, fluoride can actually kill the harmful bacteria that produce acid and dissolves tooth enamel.
What are the Best Brands?
Over the counter hydroxyapatite toothpaste can be nano-hydroxyapatite, micro-hydroxyapatite, or can be blended with zinc. Here are some of the effective toothpaste brands to choose from:
Boka Nano-hydroxyapatite Toothpaste
RiseWell Toothpaste
David’s Nano-hydroxyapatite Toothpaste
While hydroxyapatite toothpaste is one of the most popular forms of this mineral, there are other ways to get its benefits. Other forms of hydroxyapatite include:
Hydroxyapatite gel – used like toothpaste, CariFree gel is used for brushing the teeth, or can be applied directly to specific areas of the teeth using a brush or your finger.
Hydroxyapatite mouthwash – RiseWell and CariFree both make a liquid form of hydroxyapatite that can be swished around the mouth for up to 30 seconds and then spit out.
Hydroxyapatite Floss – Boka and RiseWell both carry hydroxyapatite infused floss to get in between the teeth and promote re-mineralization and proactively fight plaque.
So, if you're looking for a natural way to keep your teeth healthy and strong, give hydroxyapatite a try!
Dr. Stephanie Vera is a general dentist practicing in Murphy, Texas. She is a graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry and believes education and prevention are essential to a happy, healthy smile.
