What is Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste?

Every dentist is familiar with the benefits of fluoride.

Topical exposure of fluoride to the tooth inhibits demineralization, as fluoride is taken up into the surface of apatite crystals during acid attacks. Fluoride ions substitute hydroxyl groups in enamel apatite, resulting in the formation of fluoroapatite or flurorohydroxyapatite. This mineral is more resistant to acidic substances, has lower solubility and greater hardness than hydroxyapatite. In the quest for natural oral health, a pivot is underway from traditional fluoride toothpaste to hydroxyapatite in oral products.

What is hydroxyapatite?

Tooth enamel is made up of millions of carbonated hydroxyapatite crystals. In nanoparticle format, hydroxyapatite promises a natural, effective approach to dental care. NASA first discovered nano-hydroxyapatite (n-Ha) for its astronauts. This is a biomimetic mineral constituting 97% of tooth enamel and 70% of dentin. Thus, it holds a natural affinity to human teeth​. Unlike fluoride, which forms a protective barrier on the enamel, n-Ha lends itself to deeper remineralization. It contributes minerals essential for tooth repair and effectively treating deeper decay​​. Enter Boka toothpaste.

Comparative Advantages

  • Toxicity: A stark difference lies in toxicity. While fluoride carries a risk of dental and skeletal fluorosis upon overexposure, hydroxyapatite is non-toxic. It is safe even when swallowed in large amounts. This makes it an overall safer choice, particularly for children who might ingest toothpaste inadvertently​.
  • Enamel Fortification: Hydroxyapatite enhances the microhardness of enamel more effectively than fluorapatite, the product of fluoride interaction with enamel.
  • Oral Microbiome: Unlike fluoride, which kills both harmful and beneficial bacteria, n-Ha prevents harmful bacteria from adhering to the enamel. It does so without disrupting the oral microbiome, offering a more balanced approach to oral health​.
  • Whitening: Hydroxyapatite toothpaste also holds promise in teeth whitening without the addition of abrasive or whitening agents.

Hydroxyapatite Efficacy

Studies suggest no significant difference in the efficacy of fluoride and hydroxyapatite toothpaste in remineralizing teeth and reducing lesion depth. Both types of toothpaste have demonstrated their prowess in combating tooth decay and promoting oral health, with hydroxyapatite presenting a more homogeneous lesion remineralization compared to fluoride​.


Explore

Explore More

Dentistry’s Newest Favorite Item is an Electric Flosser

Imagine flossing being as quick and effortless as brushing your teeth. In collaboration with Flaus.

AI vs. Your Dentist

AI vs. your dentist in analyzing radiographs, pinpointing caries, bone loss, calculus, and faulty restorations. Dental AI is the future.

Dental Compact (DDH) Enacted by 7th State

Maine has officially become the 7th state to enact the Dentist & Dental Hygienist Licensure Compact.

ADA Withdraws Lead Apron Recommendation

The American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs no longer recommends the use of lead aprons and thyroid collars for radiographs.

The iTero Lumina Wand Increases Scan Speed 3-Fold

The iTero Lumina scanner has transformed the doctor-patient experience with its innovative Multi-Direct Capture Technology.

  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two
  • Class Two