While fluoride is an effective treatment for a several types of dental issues, nano hydroxyapatite is just as effective in addressing dental issues while posing fewer potential risks for systemic toxicity than fluoride.

Certain populations, such as children, pregnant women and those at risk for dental fluorosis, in particular will benefit from switching to nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste over fluoride toothpaste.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about nano hydroxyapatite and its comparative efficacy to fluoride.

What is hydroxyapatite toothpaste?

Hydroxyapatite toothpaste is a relatively new type of toothpaste that is gaining popularity due to its potential benefits for oral health.

It contains either hydroxyapatite or nano hydroxyapatite (nHa), a smaller, more effective version of hydroxyapatite.

The coolest part? Hydroxyapatite is a naturally occurring mineral that makes up 97% of tooth enamel and 60% of tooth dentin.

Unlike fluoride toothpaste, nano hydroxyapatite is a natural substance already found in your teeth and bones.

These hydroxyapatite toothpastes work by depositing calcium and phosphate ions back into your tooth surface where research has shown that it can help strengthen and remineralize teeth, making it a promising option for dental care.

Hydroxyapatite toothpaste is often fluoride-free and is considered a safe and effective alternative for maintaining oral health, particularly for individuals with sensitive teeth and pregnant women.

This is because nano hydroxyapatite is safe and does not exhibit the negative effects associated with excess fluoride consumption such as toxicity and fluorosis.

How does hydroxyapatite toothpaste work?

Because it is made of the same materials as your teeth, nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste works to prevent tooth decay by filling in your enamel with calcium and phosphate. This is a process known as remineralization. 

A standard diet high in acid and sugar will slowly eat away at your enamel. Without intervention, your enamel erodes, and cavities form. 

Dental experts use nano hydroxyapatite paste to prevent this erosion through a process called remineralization and to improve your oral health overall.

Benefits of Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste

Hydroxyapatite toothpaste tablets are making waves for all of the incredible benefits they offer for your teeth. Here in this section, we'll explore 6 of the most important ones.

Remineralization and Tooth Decay Prevention

Nano hydroxyapatite functions to strengthen your enamel surface and increase the mineral density of your teeth. This process makes your teeth stronger and glossier while also decreasing your chances of tooth decay, leading to a radiant smile!

Cavity Prevention

While hydroxyapatite does not have the same FDA approval for dental caries prevention as fluoride, studies show that nano hydroxyapatite does indeed help remineralize initial caries lesions.

This process can stimulate bone growth leading to reduced chances of developing decayed enamel.

However, if cavities have progressed beyond the enamel, hydroxyapatite cannot heal them. In such cases, professional dental treatment, such as fillings or other restorative procedures, is necessary to repair the damage and prevent further decay.

Reduce Teeth Sensitivity

Even beyond caries prevention, synthetic hydroxyapatite is an effective desensitizing agent. Research shows that it is a safe material for reducing dentin hypersensitivity.

By depositing minerals into the protective layer of your teeth, hydroxyapatite toothpaste can make a significant difference in your ability to tolerate acidity, temperature, and sugar.

Healthy Oral Microbiome

A healthy mouth has a unique environment of bacteria in it. Using synthetic hydroxyapatite is helpful in reducing the growth of bad bacteria while sparing the good bacteria that protect your teeth.

Additionally, many common agents in oral care can disrupt your microbiome, such as:

• chlorhexidine
• hydrogen peroxide
• and sodium lauryl sulfate

These ingredients may lead to issues like sensitive teeth and dry mouth. Nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste protects your mouth from these negative effects. 

Fights Bad Bacteria

Nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste, unlike fluoride, has unique antibacterial properties. By selectively killing off certain strains of bacteria that disrupt your mouth, hydroxyapatite protects your teeth and gums.

Prevent Dental Fluorosis

Excessive use of fluoride products in dental care causes the discoloration of your teeth through a condition called dental fluorosis.

Therefore, switching to a more natural formula, such as nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste can help preserve the beauty of your smile.

Is hydroxyapatite safe?

The answer is straightforward yes, nano hydroxyapatite is safe to use.

In fact, research indicates that nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste may have fewer safety concerns compared to fluoride toothpaste.

Nano hydroxyapatite particles do not induce toxicity the way overconsumption of fluoride can. This is particularly important for certain populations such as:

• pregnant women
• children
• people prone to tooth decay and cavities
• people who live in environments with high fluoride concentrations in the water

Therefore, choosing nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste tablets can be your ideal step toward a safer and more effective oral care routine.

Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride toothpaste is considered the standard in caries remineralization and reducing tooth sensitivity.

Interestingly, fluoride is not a natural substance that your body already makes, unlike nano hydroxyapatite.

When fluoride remineralization occurs, toothpaste deposits fluoride minerals back into your tooth enamel. This can be effective for:

• strengthening your teeth
• fighting sensitive teeth
• and reducing caries incidence

However, certain groups of people should avoid fluoride toothpaste. For instance, pregnant women require different fluoride concentrations as compared to other demographics.

This is because fluoride can be harmful to a growing fetus and has been shown to have neurotoxic effects.

Various studies show there is a negative impact on the intelligence tests in children when pregnant mothers consume fluoride.

How does fluoride toothpaste work?

Fluoridated toothpaste works by depositing fluoride minerals back into your enamel. The two most common forms consist of:

• Stannous fluoride
• Sodium fluoride

Dental professionals typically prescribe fluoride toothpaste to build stronger cavity resistant teeth, but it is not the only effective treatment.

Benefits of Fluoride Toothpaste

Just like nano hydroxyapatite, fluoride toothpaste offers a range of benefits for maintaining optimal oral health.

Effective Cavity Protection

Fluoride toothpaste is known for its effectiveness in protecting against cavities by strengthening tooth enamel and reducing the risk of decay.

Enhanced Enamel Remineralization

Similar to nano hydroxyapatite, fluoride supports the remineralization of enamel, aiding in the restoration of essential minerals for stronger teeth.

Bacterial Growth Inhibition

Fluoride hinders the growth of bacteria in the mouth, particularly those responsible for acid production, contributing to a healthier oral environment.

Reduced Sensitivity

By fortifying enamel, fluoride toothpaste helps minimize tooth sensitivity, allowing for increased tolerance to temperature fluctuations and certain foods.

However . . .

While fluoride toothpaste is known to have these benefits, it can be dangerous to ingest large amounts, which is why it’s recommended you spit your toothpaste instead of swallowing.

Hydroxyapatite vs Fluoride Toothpaste: What's the difference?

While hydroxyapatite can be considered better than fluoride, we often see hydroxyapatite and fluoride being used in toothpaste formulations.

So, how do these ingredients truly perform, and how do they differ from one another?

Mechanism of Action

Hydroxyapatite and fluoride take different approaches when it comes to protecting our teeth.

Hydroxyapatite toothpaste works by forming a new layer of hydroxyapatite on the surface of the tooth, which integrates into the natural tooth structure, strengthening and remineralizing it.

Meanwhile, fluoride toothpaste works by reacting with the saliva in your mouth to create fluorapatite, a substance that helps prevent tooth decay by promoting remineralization of tooth enamel.

Efficacy

When discussing the efficacy of hydroxyapatite and fluoride toothpaste, a distinction arises.

Numerous studies suggest that fluoride has long been effective in reducing caries due to its capability of integrating into the tooth enamel and fighting off harmful bacteria.

However, a recent study indicates that hydroxyapatite toothpaste is equally, if not more, effective in remineralizing initial caries lesions and reducing the formation of plaque. 

Safety

While both fluoride and hydroxyapatite toothpaste are generally safe for daily use, there are certain considerations for each.

For instance, overconsumption of fluoride, especially in young children, could lead to dental fluorosis, fluoride toxicity, and more.

On the contrary, nano hydroxyapatite is biomimetic and safe as it is already a substance naturally present in our teeth, which makes it less likely to cause any harm when use.

Side Effects

While, both types of toothpaste are generally considered safe for regular use, excessive ingestion of fluoride can potentially lead to fluorosis- a condition that causes discoloration or spotting on the teeth.

Hydroxyapatite toothpaste, being an all-natural substance, does not have known side effects because it's a compound your body already makes, your teeth and bones are made of hydroxyapatite. Because hydroxyapatite toothpaste side effects are minimal, it's consider a safe tool for pregnant women and children.

Therefore, considering factors for these both hydroxyapatite and fluoride toothpastes offer unique benefits.

The decision to choose one over the other often boils down to personal oral care needs and your dentist's advice.

Is hydroxyapatite as strong as fluoride?

No, fluoride is stronger and more resistant to demineralization than hydroxyapatite.

However, hydroxyapatite is still just as effective at remineralization and perhaps even better at soothing hypersensitivity because it's the natural material that your teeth are already made of.

So, while fluoride is renowned for its strength, hydroxyapatite stands out for its natural affinity with the teeth and its potential to excel in specific oral health aspects.

Of course, you can always use nano hydroxyapatite and fluoride together in your oral care routine if you wish.

Is hydroxyapatite better than fluoride?

Yes, hydroxyapatite can be considered better than fluoride as it offers similar benefits without the associated toxicity.

It provides the advantages of fluoride, such as cavity protection, sensitivity reduction, and enamel remineralization, but without the potential harm linked to fluoride ingestion.

Hydroxyapatite is non-toxic and safe enough to swallow, unlike fluoride, which can cause dental and skeletal fluorosis if overexposed.

That's why choosing hydroxyapatite can be a safer and better alternative for oral care.

However, it is always recommended to consult with a dental professional for personalized recommendations.

What other dental hygiene habits matter?

Alongside the pivotal role of the ingredients in your oral care products, daily practices such as brushing, flossing, and mouth rinsing contribute significantly to your overall dental health.

Let’s delve into these complementary habits that should be part of you and each of everyone's oral care regimen.

Brushing Twice Daily

Committing to brushing twice daily is a cornerstone of dental hygiene.

Each session should last at least two minutes, ensuring all surfaces of the teeth are thoroughly cleaned.

This routine not only dislodges food particles and plaque but also helps prevent cavities and periodontal diseases, keeping your teeth and gums in peak condition.

Using Expandable Floss

Where toothbrushes may not reach, using expandable floss plays a critical role.

Expandable floss is designed to widen when in contact with saliva, ensuring a more effective clean between teeth compared to regular floss.

Regular use helps remove plaque from interdental areas, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Using Alcohol Free Mouthwash

Using alcohol free mouthwash after brushing and flossing can offer a multitude of benefits.

Not only does it help rinse away any residual plaque or food particles, but it also maintains a balanced pH in the mouth, which is crucial for a healthy oral flora.

Alcohol free formulas are particularly beneficial for those with a sensitive oral mucosa, as they prevent dryness and irritation.

Tongue Scraping Daily

Tongues can harbor bacteria that contribute to bad breath and potential oral health problems, making tongue scraping daily an essential practice.

A tongue scraper can effectively remove the buildup of microorganisms and dead cells from the surface of the tongue, promoting fresher breath and contributing to a healthier oral environment.

Should I switch to fluoride free toothpaste?

Yes, but make sure you switch to fluoride free toothpaste tablets with nano hydroxyapatite.

It is a great alternative to fluoride toothpaste in promoting several benefits such as:

• remineralization
• reduction of dentin hypersensitivity
• and prevention of dental caries

without the potential adverse health effects associated with excessive fluoride.

Therefore, switching to fluoride free toothpaste is the ideal step to consider in your oral care routine as it is a safe, does not cause cavities and beneficial choice for your oral health.

Should I use hydroxyapatite toothpaste?

Yes, you should use hydroxyapatite toothpaste as it offers the same benefits as fluoride toothpaste without any adverse effects.

Research has also indicated that hydroxyapatite toothpaste can effectively whiten teeth by reducing stains and enhancing their whiteness.

Therefore, incorporating hydroxyapatite toothpaste into your oral care routine can be a safe and beneficial choice for maintaining good oral health.

The Bottom Line: Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste vs Fluoride

All in all, hydroxyapatite and fluoride are both effective in maintaining oral health, but they work differently.

If you're looking for a toothpaste that's not only known for its effectiveness, consider natural toothpaste with nano hydroxyapatite where you can have peace of mind for its safety and effectiveness.

Now that's what we call a winner!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does hydroxyapatite whiten teeth?
Yes, some studies suggest that hydroxyapatite toothpaste can effectively whiten teeth by removing surface stains and enhancing their whiteness, making it a promising option for tooth whitening.

Can I use hydroxyapatite and fluoride together?
Yes, using hydroxyapatite and fluoride together is generally safe and can be beneficial for your dental health.

Studies suggest that nano hydroxyapatite is equally effective as fluoride in remineralizing teeth, reducing tooth sensitivity, and preventing dental caries, and using them together may provide comparable efficacy without the potential adverse health effects associated with excessive fluoride.

Why use hydroxyapatite toothpaste?
Hydroxyapatite toothpaste is used to help restore and remineralize teeth, reduce tooth sensitivity, and prevent dental caries. It is also considered safe for long-term use and does not use strong abrasives, making it a suitable option for maintaining oral health.

How often should I use nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste?
Nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste can be used as part of a regular oral hygiene routine, and it is generally safe for daily use.We recommend brushing for two minutes, twice per day, with nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste to maintain oral health.

Can kids use nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste?
Yes, kids nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste is well-suited for all age groups, including, of course, children.

Several studies have indicated that hydroxyapatite can be used on a daily basis without any adverse reactions, and even by persons under the age of 18, making it a safe option for children's oral care.