Nano hydroxyapatite is an effective remineralizing agent found in toothpaste.

While nano particles have previously been scrutinized for safety, evidence suggests that they are safe at up to 10% nano hydroxyapatite concentration in toothpaste.

Not to mention, the inclusion of nano hydroxyapatite particles in toothpaste may offer an alternative to fluoride, which has been associated with toxicity concerns in some cases.

Nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste has a number of oral care benefits, including:

• Remineralizing capabilities

• Strengthening tooth enamel

• Preventing tooth decay

• Reducing tooth sensitivity

• Fighting dry mouth

This article will explain everything you need to know about hydroxyapatite nanoparticles, safety, and benefits.

What is nano hydroxyapatite?

Nano hydroxyapatite is is synthetic derivative of a naturally occurring organic material called calcium phosphate.

Thanks to its function as a biocompatible mineral, nHA has many uses in medicine, including the ability to stimulate bone growth.

One of the most popular uses comes from regenerative dentistry, in the form of remineralizing toothpaste with nano hydroxyapatite.

Where does nano hydroxyapatite come from?

Nano-hydroxyapatite is a derivative of calcium phosphate that is naturally found in your teeth and bones.

While it has many medical applications, some dental professionals promote nano medical hydroxyapatite as an alternative to fluoride in toothpaste.

In fact, it is an effective studied biomaterial that has shown potential for remineralizing and repairing teeth without any undesirable systemic effects.

How does nano hydroxyapatite work?

Because it is made from the same materials your teeth are made of, nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste prevents cavities by filling in your enamel with calcium and phosphate to restore and strengthen your teeth.

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

Dental professionals use nano hydroxyapatite paste to preventing this erosion and to improve your oral health overall.

Is nano hydroxyapatite banned in the EU?

No, nano hydroxyapatite is not banned in the EU.

As of March 2023, the EU Scientific Committee of Consumer Safety determined "hydroxyapatite (nano) safe when used at concentrations up to 10% in toothpaste, and up to 0.465% in mouthwash".

This conclusion came after much research and debate over the safety and potential health risks of nano particles in oral cosmetics.

Is nano hydroxyapatite approved by the FDA?

Nano hydroxyapatite is generally regarded as safe by the FDA, but it has not yet been fully approved as a medical device for regenerative dentistry practices.

In layman's terms, nano hydroxyapatite has been studied for its safety as an ingredient, but there are marketing restrictions around it at this time.

Nano Hydroxyapatite and Pediatric Safety

Nano hydroxyapatite is considered by some as an alternative to fluoride for children for a number of developmental and physical reasons.

Ingestion

While you should never be intentionally swallowing your toothpaste, nano hydroxyapatite is safer to ingest for children than fluoride, especially for those living in an area with a high concentration of fluoride in the water supply.

In fact, one study even found that, "Greater exposure to high levels of fluoride in water was significantly associated with reduced levels of intelligence in children."

For this reason, switching to hydroxyapatite toothpaste is a good choice to make for your child's safety.

Teeth Whitening

Excess exposure to fluoride during your child's development can lead to an unsightly condition called dental fluorosis.

When children are exposed to fluoride during tooth development, their dental enamel is disturbed. This leads to lower mineral content and increased porosity throughout their life.

To protect your children, consider switching to a fluoride free toothpaste, like a hydroxyapatite toothpaste, while they're still young.

Brain Development

Similar to tooth development, fluoride also negatively impacts pediatric brain development.

In particular, one study found that "Exposure to increasing levels of fluoride in tap water was associated with diminished non-verbal intellectual abilities".

Nano hydroxyapatite toothpastes, on the other hand, have not been shown to exhibit toxic activity in the same way as fluoride in some studies.

Benefits of Nano Hydroxyapatite

Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles are a natural complement to your tooth enamel as they are both made of the same materials.

Thus, nano hydroxyapatite has a number of oral health benefits and makes a great fluoride alternative.

Completely Non Toxic

Hydroxyapatite is biocompatible with the human body. It is naturally occurring organic material found in your teeth and bones. Thus, it is safely used in oral care without harmful side effects.

Fights Teeth Sensitivity

Nano hydroxyapatite is an effective desensitizing agent. Studies show that it is a safe material for reducing dentin hypersensitivity.

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

Fights Tooth Decay and Cavities

Hydroxyapatite works by depositing natural minerals back into your teeth through a process called enamel remineralization.

Remineralization is essential for a healthy mouth and protects against tooth loss. This process stimulates bone growth and reduces incidence of cavities.

Makes Teeth Strong

Nano hydroxyapatite functions to strength 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 beautiful smile!

Comparison: Nano Hydroxyapatite vs. Fluoride Toothpaste

While fluoride is the historical gold standard in cavity prevention, there are no significant differences in the remineralizing capability of nano hydroxyapatite and fluoride toothpaste.

In fact, studies suggest that nano hydroxyapatite has equally as effective regenerative applications with excellent biocompatibility and consumer safety properties, unlike fluoride.

Is nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste better than fluoride toothpaste?

Both fluoride and nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste are effective at supporting good oral health through:

• Reducing teeth sensitivity

• Promoting dentine remineralization

• Dental caries prevention

• Supporting the oral microbiome

Further, studies show both compounds have similar comparative efficacy for remineralizing teeth, lesion depth reduction, and inhibiting enamel caries progression. 

Is nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste safer than fluoride toothpaste?

Studies suggest that nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste may have fewer safety concerns compared to fluoride toothpaste.

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

• Pregnant women

• People prone to tooth decay and cavities

• People who live in environments with high fluoride concentrations in the water

Do yourself a favor and pick up some nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste tablets today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How does nano hydroxyapatite feel on your teeth?

Nano hydroxyapatite leaves your teeth feeling smooth and glossy. It's an effective remineralizing agent that naturally fills the holes in your enamel and prevents cavities.

Is Nano hydroxyapatite FDA approved?

Nano hydroxyapatite is regarded as generally safe by the FDA, but it is not approved as a medical device for the specific treatment of cavities. There is sufficient evidence of nano hydroxyapatite safety and its ability to effectively treat a number of oral health conditions.

Do dentists recommend hydroxyapatite?

Yes, dentists recommend nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste for daily use. Unlike fluoride, nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste has a number of dental benefits with no toxicity concerns.