What is Hydroxyapatite

Having worked as a Licensed Dental Assistant for over twenty years, I know a thing or two about teeth. One ingredient that has gained significant attention in recent years is hydroxyapatite.

While fluoride has long been the standard ingredient in North American toothpaste, hydroxyapatite has been used for decades in countries such as Japan and parts of Europe. It has also been the subject of numerous scientific studies investigating its role in supporting tooth enamel.

What Is Hydroxyapatite?

Hydroxyapatite is a naturally occurring mineral made primarily of calcium and phosphate. In fact, about 97% of your tooth enamel and roughly 70% of dentin (the layer beneath the enamel) are composed of hydroxyapatite crystals. Your bones are also largely made from this same mineral.

The hydroxyapatite used in oral care products is manufactured to closely resemble the mineral already found in your teeth. Because it is biomimetic, meaning it mimics the body's own natural material. It is designed to integrate with the tooth surface.

How Does It Work?

Hydroxyapatite toothpaste works by depositing tiny particles of calcium and phosphate onto the tooth surface. These particles can help fill microscopic defects in enamel, smooth rough areas, reduce sensitivity by blocking exposed dentinal tubules, and support the natural remineralization process.

Research suggests that hydroxyapatite can be effective at reducing sensitivity and helping repair early enamel damage, sometimes called "white spot lesions," which are the earliest stage of tooth decay before a cavity forms.

Can Hydroxyapatite Repair Cracks in Enamel?

This is where it's important to distinguish between microscopic damage and visible structural damage.

Hydroxyapatite may help repair tiny microscopic defects and areas of early mineral loss within the enamel. It can strengthen weakened enamel by replacing lost minerals and creating a smoother, more mineralized surface.

However, itcannot repair visible cracks, chips, or fracturesin a tooth. Once enamel has a structural crack, it cannot regenerate like skin or bone. Those types of cracks still require evaluation by a dental professional.

Can It Repair Dentin?

Hydroxyapatite does not regenerate or rebuild damaged dentin in the way living tissues heal after an injury. However, it can help protect exposed dentin by sealing the tiny tubules that lead to the nerve inside the tooth. This is one of the reasons many people notice reduced tooth sensitivity after using hydroxyapatite toothpaste consistently.

It may also support remineralization at the surface of dentin, but it cannot replace dentin that has been lost through decay, trauma, or deep wear.

Is Hydroxyapatite Safe?

Current research indicates that hydroxyapatite is considered safe for use in toothpaste and other oral care products. Because it is chemically similar to the mineral naturally found in teeth and bones, it has demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and has been used in dentistry and medicine for decades, including in bone graft materials and certain dental applications.

My Hydroxyapatite Product Picks

1. Tanitabs
   This is my top choice for several reasons. It has a clean ingredient list, is made by a Canadian company, and is the most environmentally friendly option of the products I've recommended. Instead of traditional non-recyclable toothpaste tubes, it comes in compostable packaging, and the company has designed it to be a carbon-negative product, making it an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact.

   One of the things I enjoy most is that it comes in a tablet form rather than a traditional toothpaste. Simply chew a tablet (do not swallow), then brush your teeth as you normally would. It took me a few days to get used to the change as it doesn’t foam as much as traditional toothpaste. But now I actually prefer it.

   Another feature I love is the variety of flavours. Unlike traditional toothpaste, which is often limited to mint, this brand offers different flavour options that make brushing your teeth a little more enjoyable.

   It's also the most economical of the options. While hydroxyapatite toothpastes are generally more expensive than conventional brands like Crest or Colgate, I believe the quality of the ingredients and the potential benefits make them worth considering if they fit within your budget.

   Personally, this is the toothpaste I use. Use code ‘DawnRisingFriend’ to receive 20% off your order.

2. X-Pur Remin Toothpaste
   If you prefer a traditional toothpaste over tablets, this would be my recommendation. I've tried it myself and found it has a light, mint flavour. It only comes in mint, so there aren't any flavour options to choose from, and it doesn't foam as much as conventional toothpaste. That's completely normal and doesn't affect its ability to clean your teeth.

   The toothpaste comes in a relatively small tube and is more expensive than traditional brands, so it is an investment. However, if you're looking for a hydroxyapatite toothpaste in a familiar paste form, this is an excellent option.

A few years ago, when charcoal toothpaste became popular, many products entered the market. Some were found to be overly abrasive, raising concerns about long-term enamel wear. If you're considering a hydroxyapatite toothpaste, look for one that uses nano-hydroxyapatite, as this form has the strongest body of research supporting enamel remineralization. It's also worth choosing a manufacturer that is transparent about its formulation, provides safety and testing information, and supports its claims with published research.

The Bottom Line

Hydroxyapatite is an exciting advancement in oral care and offers another evidence-based option for supporting healthy teeth. It can help remineralize early enamel damage, strengthen enamel, and reduce tooth sensitivity. However, it is not a cure for cavities, broken teeth, or significant enamel cracks.

This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.

Dawn Rising is community supported. When you make a purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.