Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste Tablets: Are They Worth The Hype?
Hydroxyapatite toothpaste tablets are revolutionizing oral care with its excellent teeth strengthening capabilities.
They're a sustainable alternative to conventional toothpaste that provides benefits such as:
- teeth remineralization
- enamel trengthening
- teeth whitening
- reducing teeth sensitivity
- and controlling biofilm.
What is nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste, and how is it different from fluoride? We'll explore all of these questions and more. Keep reading!
What is Nano-Hydroxyapatite?
Nano-hydroxyapatite is a more common alternative to fluoride, and it has become the gold standard in preventing cavities in Japan since 2013.
Nano-Hydroxyapatite, also known as nHA, is a synthetic version of the main component of calcium phosphate or enamel that help with the remineralization of teeth with the help of saliva called Hydroxyapatite (HA). The enamel in our teeth is made up of 97% hydroxyapatite.
It's commonly used in restoring teeth and bones and is now popularized in the orthopedics, dentistry, and osteopathy field of study.
Where did Nano-Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste Come From?
Initially, nHA was developed by NASA in the 1970s to replace the severe mineral loss of astronauts due to staying for long periods in a zero-gravity environment.
Sangi, the apatite company from Japan, acquired the patent from NASA in 1978 and, shortly after, introduced the world's first enamel-restoring toothpaste to Japan.
How Nano-Hydroxyapatite Works
Nano-hydroxyapatite is a local source of calcium and phosphate that helps remineralization. Due to the biomimetic properties of nHA, it is able to form a synthetic layer of enamel around demineralizaed areas.
In 2003, the medical nano-hydroxyapatite was reduced to 50 nanometers in size to make it easier and more effective in penetrating below the surface of the enamel. With its size, nHA can fill gaps in the collagen matrix and dentin tubes to reduce dental sensitivity.
Studies suggest that HA in oral care products is excellent in reducing bacterial adhesion to the enamel without unwanted side effects.
nHA works by bonding with plaque and harmful bacteria, preventing them from attaching to the teeth and reducing the risk of tooth decay and other periodontal diseases.
How Fluoride Works
Fluoride is effective in remineralization and resisting acid attacks.
Fluoride works by teaming up with calcium and phosphate to form fluorapatite from the saliva to promote remineralization and strengthen teeth.
It forms a barrier around the teeth that is less soluble than hydroxyapatite and more resistant to acid attacks.
However, fluoride is dependent on sources of fluoride such as saliva, fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash, drinking water, and food.
Unlike hydroxyapatite which already exists in the teeth and nHA that serves as a local source of calcium and phosphate, fluoride works hand-in-hand with other sources of calcium and phosphate to form fluorapatite for remineralization.
What are the Benefits of Nano-Hydroxyapatite?
- Biofilm Control – Unlike fluoride, which kills tooth-decaying bacteria and good bacteria alike, nano-hydroxyapatite bonds with plaque and bacteria and prevents it from attaching to the enamel.
- Remineralization – As fluoride remineralizes the tooth with the help of saliva, nHA works as a mineral reinforcement by being a local source of calcium and phosphate.
- Whitens teeth surface – nHA fills the tiny abrasions and holes in the teeth, causing the teeth to appear polished and whiter. It also helps remove unwanted white spots and developing caries.
- Reduces soft tissue infection – Because nHA is effective in bonding with plaque and bacteria, it reduces the risk of soft tissue infections such as gingivitis.
- Reduces tooth sensitivity – nano-hydroxyapatite bonds with collagen to provide a protective coating of the dentin and dentinal tubes, which helps in reducing tooth sensitivity. It also helps in stimulating bone growth.
- Non-toxic – since nHA is a synthetic form of hydroxyapatite, due to its biocompatibility, it has no side effects, unlike fluoride. It is safe to ingest for adults and even for kids.
Is Toothpaste with Nano-Hydroxyapatite Better than Fluoride Toothpaste?
Until now, there have been no significant conclusions on which is better. Both fluoride and nano-hydroxyapatite have different oral care capabilities.
Remineralization
While fluoride restores enamel by creating a layer of protection above the teeth with the help of saliva, nHA directly works as reinforcement and protection for the teeth at a deeper level.
Solubility
Since hydroxyapatite is more soluble than fluorapatite, it is more prone to demineralization in acidic conditions.
Teeth Sensitivity
Due to its size, nHA can penetrate dentinal tubes and drastically reduce sensitivity. Regularly using toothpaste with nHA for 1 to 4 weeks can decrease dental hypersensitivity.
Studies show that nHA is more effective than fluoride in reducing teeth sensitivity by 23%.
Biocompatibility and Safety
Nano-hydroxyapatite is biomimetic and biocompatible, it only prevents opportunistic pathogens from attaching to the enamel, without undesired side effects. It doesn't kill beneficial bacteria and it keeps the balance in the microbiome, unlike other antibacterial agents.
Also, even with hefty use, it does not result in toxicity. Fluoride, on the other hand can cause intoxication and fluorosis, which results to white or brown spots on the teeth's surface.
Who can use toothpaste with nano-hydroxyapatite?
Anyone. Toothpaste with nHA is safe for anyone.
Although some citizens may be skeptical of hydroxyapatite toothpaste as it is relatively new to the world compared to fluoride, which has been available since 1912, a lot of dental practitioners would recommend it to people at risk with fluoride, such as:
- Pregnant women
- Small children, especially those younger than six years old
- People with sensitive teeth
- People that suffer significant mineral loss in their teeth
For years, countries like Japan, Canada, and the Netherlands have used toothpaste and mouthwash with nano-hydroxyapatite.
Although the EU has shown concern about the medical use of nHA because it could be absorbed in the skin through tiny particles, there is still no definitive data on the possible harm brought by nHA.
EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) announced on March 2023 that nano-hydroxyapatite is safe to use. Toothpaste should contain a maximum of 10% nHA concentration, and mouthwash should contain a maximum of 0.465% concentration.
Key Takeaways
Hydroxyapatite toothpaste tablets is relatively new to oral care yet it holds promising effects when used consistently.
Nano-hydroxyapatite is a great alternative to fluoride toothpaste in promoting remineralization and reducing teeth sensitivity without the risk of intoxication and fluorosis. It delivers the same plaque control and enamel protection as fluoride.
Feel the difference with NOBS toothpaste tablets with nano-hydroxyapatite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use hydroxyapatite toothpaste tablet everyday?
Yes, you can use hydroxyapatite toothpaste tablet everyday. It is safe and convenient to travel with. Plus, it has a natural mineral that strengthens your enamel without causing erosion, making it a gentle and effective option for daily use. When used daily, hydroxyapatite toothpaste can also help fight sensitivity and tooth decay.
Which toothpaste contains hydroxyapatite?
The best toothpastes containing hydroxyapatite are NOBS Toothpaste tablets and NOBS Kids Jr. Toothpaste. They are both natural and safe options fortified with nano hydroxyapatite to strengthen your enamel, prevent tooth decay, and fresh breath.
Should you rinse after using hydroxyapatite toothpaste?
No, you should not rinse after brushing with hydroxyapatite toothpaste to maximize its effectiveness in reducing tooth sensitivity and fighting tooth decay.
What is the best way to use hydroxyapatite toothpaste?
The best way to use hydroxyapatite toothpaste is to brush twice daily for two minutes morning and night and avoid rising afterward. This process, combined with flossing with expandable floss, using a tongue scraper, and using alcohol-free mouthwash will freshen your breath, prevent tooth decay, and fight sensitivity.
What is nano hydroxyapatite made of?
Nano hydroxyapatite is made from calcium and phosphate, similar to the natural composition of your bones and tooth enamel.
Are toothpaste tablet safe to use?
Yes, toothpaste tablets are safe to use, especially if they contain nano-hydroxyapatite, a dentist-approved ingredient that helps strengthen enamel. This compound offers an effective alternative to fluoride, promoting oral health and cavity prevention. Always check the ingredients and consult your dentist if needed.
