Remineralizing toothpaste is a specialized dental care product designed to support and stimulate the natural process of tooth enamel repair by replenishing essential minerals lost during the demineralization process.

This type of toothpaste targets the early stages of tooth decay, where your enamel begins to lose minerals due to the acidic byproducts of oral bacteria metabolizing dietary sugars. Typically, remineralizing toothpaste includes active ingredients like:

• nano hydroxyapatite

• fluoride

• or theobromine.

Of course, besides brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes, no remineralizing oral care routine is complete without flossing and tongue scraping as well.

In this article, I'll explain everything you need to know about remineralizing toothpaste and how to protect your teeth from demineralization.

So, what is remineralization anyways?

Remineralization is our body's natural repair mechanism for healing tooth enamel after it has undergone the demineralization process.

You see, demineralization occurs when the bad bacteria living in our mouths feast on the sugars stuck to our teeth (think plaque!) and produce acids as byproducts. These byproducts erode away at the mineral content of our teeth, causing tooth decay and, if left untreated, dental caries.

Thankfully, the remineralization process counters demineralization by depositing essential minerals, namely calcium phosphate, back into the enamel. These minerals are largely supplied by our saliva, but they can also be depositing through the right remineralizing toothpaste, such as fluoride toothpaste or nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste.

Both nano hydroxyapatite and fluoride are effective at strengthening tooth enamel and reversing tooth decay before it progresses to enamel caries, though many people view fluoride as an ingredient to avoid in toothpaste.

What causes demineralization?

Tooth demineralization is primarily caused by the interaction of acids with tooth enamel. These can be dietary acids or simply acids produced by the bad bacteria in our mouth.

Let's walk through some of the main causes of tooth decay and demineralization.

BAD BACTERIA & PLAQUE

Dental plaque is a thin, sticky film that naturally forms on our teeth. It consists of bacteria colonies that feed on sugars and carbohydrates from the foods we consume.

As they metabolize these sugars, they produce acids as byproducts. These acids can gradually erode the minerals, primarily calcium and phosphate, from our teeth which leads to demineralization.

Regular brushing and flossing help remove dental plaque, reducing the presence of acid-producing bacteria and their harmful effects on enamel.

DIETARY ACIDS

Consuming acidic foods and beverages can directly introduce acids into our mouths, disrupting our oral pH.

For example, citrus fruits, carbonated sodas, and fruit juices are naturally acidic. When these acidic substances come into contact with tooth enamel, they can weaken the enamel's mineral structure, making it more susceptible to demineralization.

Limiting the intake of acidic foods and practicing good oral hygiene can help mitigate the impact of these dietary acids on teeth.

POOR ORAL HYGIENE

Inadequate oral hygiene practices, such as infrequent or insufficient brushing and flossing, can lead to dental plaque accumulating on tooth surfaces.

When plaque is not regularly removed, it provides a breeding ground for acid-producing bacteria. These bacteria thrive in the plaque and continuously generate acids as they metabolize sugars.

The prolonged exposure of teeth to these acids can result in demineralization, making regular and thorough oral care essential for preventing enamel damage.

DRY MOUTH

Saliva is known for its ability to neutralize acids and support the remineralization of enamel. It's an essential component of your oral microbiome.

However, conditions that reduce salivary flow, such as certain medications, medical conditions, or dehydration, can leave the mouth dry. In a dry mouth environment, acids are not effectively neutralized, and the protective effects of saliva are compromised.

This can lead to an increased risk of enamel demineralization and tooth decay, making it essential for individuals with dry mouth to manage this condition effectively.

To combat dry mouth, certain toothpastes and chewing gums contain xylitol, a compound that has been proven to promote saliva production and normalize oral pH.

ACID REFLUX

Conditions like acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD) or frequent vomiting expose teeth to stomach acids, which are highly acidic and corrosive.

When these strong acids come into contact with tooth enamel, they can rapidly erode the minerals from the enamel surface, leading to demineralization.

Individuals with these conditions are at an elevated risk of enamel damage, and managing acid reflux or vomiting episodes is crucial to protect dental health.

What is remineralizing toothpaste?

Remineralizing toothpaste is a dental care product specially formulated to help reverse early signs of tooth decay and strengthen tooth enamel by facilitating the process of remineralization. Unlike traditional toothpaste, which solely focuses on

• cleaning teeth,

• breaking up biofilm,

• and preventing plaque buildup,

remineralizing toothpaste also contains active ingredients that deposit minerals back into your enamel when you brush. These minerals, specifically calcium and phosphate, are essential for repairing microscopic lesions and making your enamel more resistant to acid attacks.

One key ingredient increasingly used in remineralizing toothpaste is nano hydroxyapatite (also known as nHA), a biomimetic material that closely mimics the natural composition of our teeth and bones.

Nano hydroxyapatite is particularly effective, especially compared to fluoride and hydroxyapatite, because its particles are small enough to penetrate tiny cracks and crevices in the enamel, allowing it to strengthen enamel, sooth sensitive teeth, and even whiten teeth.

How Remineralizing Toothpaste Works

Remineralizing toothpaste works by providing essential minerals directly to the tooth enamel, facilitating the natural process of remineralization when you brush your teeth. This process is crucial for repairing the microscopic damage caused by demineralization, which occurs when acids produced by bacteria in the mouth dissolve the minerals in the tooth enamel.

The key to the effectiveness of remineralizing toothpaste lies in its active ingredients, which typically include calcium, phosphate, and fluoride or safer alternatives like nano hydroxyapatite.

When you brush your teeth with remineralizing toothpaste, these active ingredients adhere to the tooth surface and interact with saliva. Now, your saliva is naturally supersaturated with calcium and phosphate, which are the primary minerals that our teeth need to repair themselves.

However, the remineralization process can be enhanced with the additional minerals from toothpaste. Fluoride, for example, forms a harder, more acid-resistant mineral called fluorapatite on the tooth surface.

Nano hydroxyapatite, on the other hand, is a biomimetic material that closely mimics the mineral composition of tooth enamel. When used in remineralizing toothpaste, nHA particles can directly fill in and rebuild the enamel's microscopic cracks and voids. This not only helps restore the structural integrity and smoothness of the enamel but also reduces tooth sensitivity by covering exposed dentin tubules.

However, while remineralizing toothpaste highly effective for microscopic enamel damage and reducing sensitivity, it cannot heal large cavities. For substantial cavities, professional dental treatment is necessary, as remineralizing toothpaste alone cannot restore extensive damage.

Overall, the direct application of these minerals to the teeth supports the natural remineralization process, enhancing your defense against tooth decay and enamel erosion.

Can you remineralize a cavity?

No, you cannot remineralize a cavity once it has fully formed. Once a cavity, or dental caries, has formed, it means that the process of tooth decay has progressed beyond the initial stage of enamel erosion to create a permanent damage in the tooth structure. At this point, the lost tooth structure cannot be naturally regenerated even if you brush your teeth with remineralizing agents like fluoride or nano hydroxyapatite.

Ultimately, the treatment for a cavity typically involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling it with a dental material. The specific treatment modality for you will be determined by your dentist.

However, in the early stages of tooth decay, when damage is limited to demineralization and the enamel is beginning to lose minerals without the formation of an actual cavity, you can still remineralize your teeth. Yep, this early stage of decay is often reversible!

Remineralizing agents found in toothpaste, like nano hydroxyapatite, can remineralize and strengthen your weakened enamel and prevent tooth decay progression.

Popular Remineralizing Ingredients in Toothpaste

Popular remineralizing ingredients in toothpaste are designed to strengthen tooth enamel, reverse early signs of erosion, and prevent the progression of tooth decay. Let's walk through some of the most coming ingredients used to rebuild tooth enamel in remineralizing toothpaste.

Nano Hydroxyapatite

Nano hydroxyapatite is a synthetic form of hydroxyapatite, a mineral naturally found in teeth and bones. What sets nHA apart is its significantly smaller particle size, allowing for better penetration into enamel.

Nano hydroxyapatite is safe and effective. This toothpaste works by depositing nano-sized hydroxyapatite particles onto the tooth surface, which can bond with enamel and fill in micro-sized surface defects, thus strengthening the enamel structure.

Research suggests that nHA toothpaste has remineralizing properties and can effectively repair early enamel lesions and minor surface defects. These benefits are maximized at a concentration of 5% nano hydroxyapatite. 

Hydroxyapatite

Hydroxyapatite (also referred to as simply "HA") is a naturally occurring mineral that is the primary inorganic component of human teeth and bones. In the context of teeth, hydroxyapatite is a key component of tooth enamel, which is the outermost layer of the tooth surface. Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, and it protects the underlying dentin and pulp of the tooth.

Because hydroxyapatite closely mimics the natural composition of our teeth, it's an ideal agent for promoting remineralization. However, its relatively large particle size as compared to nano hydroxyapatite makes it generally less effective than nano hydroxyapatite.

In fact, one paper from 2023 even stated, "Compared to HA, nHA is found to have superior properties such as increased solubility, high surface energy and better biocompatibility. This is due to the morphological and structural similarity of nanosized hydroxyapatite particles to tooth hydroxyapatite crystals."

Fluoride

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 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.

For these reasons, many people choose to avoid fluoride in toothpaste.

Theobromine

Theobromine, an alkaloid found in cocoa and chocolate, is the subject of newer research regarding alternative remineralizing agents to fluoride. Some research suggests that theobromine is as effective as fluoride at remineralizing and strengthening tooth enamel. However, another paper found that while theobromine was successful at remineralizing enamel, it was not as effective as fluoride toothpaste.

Xylitol

While not previously considered a remineralizing agent itself, xylitol is a sugar alcohol that bacteria cannot metabolize into acids that would otherwise wear away at your enamel.

Xylitol's presence in natural toothpaste helps reduce the overall acid level in the mouth and supports the remineralization process by reducing demineralization.

Further, research suggests xylitol supports healthy teeth by reducing the growth of harmful oral bacteria. Xylitol-containing products, such as gum, toothpaste, and xylitol toothpaste tablets, can be especially beneficial for individuals prone to cavities.

Nano Hydroxyapatite vs Fluoride in Remineralizing Toothpaste

While nano hydroxyapatite and hydroxyapatite can be considered better than fluoride, we often see hydroxyapatite and fluoride together 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 and creating 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. In fact, one paper states, "No adverse health events have been reported." in regards to hydroxyapatite.

Therefore, considering factors for these both hydroxyapatite and fluoride toothpastes offer unique benefits. Ultimately, the decision to choose one over the other often boils down to personal oral care needs and your dentist's advice.

What's the best remineralizing toothpaste?

NOBS Toothpaste Tablets are the best remineralizing toothpaste you can find. Not only do they contain 5% nano hydroxyapatite to support remineralization, but they also contain other great ingredient to support your oral health, including:

• xylitol to stimulate saliva production and prevent tooth decay

• zinc citrate to fight bad bacteria and support your oral microbiome

• and sodium bicarbonate to gently polish your teeth and remove biofilm without causing damage.

As a bonus, they're also a popular eco-friendly toothpaste as they come in a reusable glass jar. In fact, they're zero waste, cruelty-free, and vegan!

Other Tips to Improve Oral Health

Let's walk through some other tips to keep your smile fresh (besides brushing with remineralizing toothpaste, of course!).

FLOSS WITH EXPANDABLE FLOSS DAILY

Daily flossing with expandable floss is an excellent way to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and along the gumline. This practice supports overall oral health and reduces the risk of enamel demineralization by preventing the buildup of harmful bacteria and acids in these hard-to-reach areas.

We recommend using dental floss at least three times per week but preferably daily for best results.

USE A TONGUE SCRAPER DAILY

Tongue scraping helps remove bacteria and debris from the tongue's surface, promoting fresher breath and reducing the presence of harmful microorganisms in the mouth.

Maintaining a cleaner oral environment can indirectly support remineralization by minimizing the impact of harmful bacteria.

USE ALCOHOL FREE MOUTHWASH AS NEEDED

Alcohol-free mouthwash can be a gentle choice for maintaining oral hygiene. It helps freshen your breath, reduce the growth of harmful bacteria, and provide supplement your usual routine of brushing and flossing.

Using alkaline mouthwash can help maintain a favorable environment for remineralization, especially when needed for additional oral care.

CHOOSE A TOOTHBRUSH WITH SOFT BRISTLES

Opting for a toothbrush with soft bristles is essential to avoid damaging enamel and gums during brushing. A soft-bristled toothbrush effectively removes plaque and food particles without causing unnecessary abrasion or damage to your enamel.

AVOID CHARCOAL TOOTHPASTE

Despite its popularity, charcoal toothpaste can be unecessarily abrasive and potentially harmful to enamel. Its abrasive nature can lead to enamel erosion, counteracting the remineralization process.

Instead, we recommend avoiding charcoal toothpaste choosing toothpaste with proven remineralizing agents like nano hydroxyapatite instead.

AVOID SUGARY AND ACIDIC FOODS IN YOUR DIET

Limiting the consumption of acidic and sugary foods and beverages is crucial for preventing enamel demineralization. These items can weaken enamel and contribute to dental issues.

To prevent issues with demineralization, we recommend that you reduce your consumption of acidic and sugary foods. Further, you can also rinse your mouth out with water or alcohol free mouthwash to neutralize the acidic and restore the natural pH of your mouth.

STOP SMOKING CIGARETTES

Smoking cigarettes can have detrimental effects on oral health, including an increased risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Quitting smoking is a significant step toward supporting both your overall and dental health.

The Bottom Line: Remineralizing Toothpastes

Remineralizing toothpastes are a fantastic tool to strengthen your enamel and prevent tooth decay by stimulating a process called remineralization. Remineralization is your body's natural process for repairing tooth enamel by replenishing it with essential minerals, primarily calcium phosphate, that are lost during demineralization.

This demineralization process occurs when harmful bacteria in the mouth metabolize sugars, producing acids that erode the mineral content of teeth, which leads to decay and potentially dental caries if unchecked.

Fortunately, remineralization can counteract this by depositing minerals back into the enamel, a process that can be significantly aided by the right remineralizing toothpaste. Ingredients like fluoride and nano hydroxyapatite are particularly effective for this purpose.

While fluoride has long been the standard for strengthening enamel and reversing decay, nHA offers a biomimetic alternative that closely mimics the natural composition of our teeth and bones. So, do yourself a favor and pick up some toothpaste tablets today.

Trust us, your smile will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does remineralizing toothpaste actually work?
Yes, remineralizing toothpastes, particularly those containing nano hydroxyapatite, has been shown to effectively strengthen tooth enamel and aid in remineralization. Nano hydroxyapatite is a compound similar to the mineral structure of teeth, making it effective in replenishing lost minerals and repairing early stages of tooth decay. Clinical studies have demonstrated its efficacy in improving enamel health and reducing the risk of early stage of cavities. However, individual results may vary, and it's advisable to consult with your dentist for personalized recommendations.

What makes a toothpaste remineralizing?
A toothpaste is considered remineralizing when it contains ingredients that help strengthen tooth enamel and promote the remineralization process. These ingredients typically include minerals such as fluoride, calcium, phosphate, and nano hydroxyapatite, which can replenish lost minerals in the tooth enamel and repair early stages of tooth decay. Remineralizing toothpaste works by depositing these minerals onto the tooth surface, helping to strengthen and protect the teeth against cavities and erosion.

Can Remineralizing teeth fix cavities?
Remineralizing toothpastes can help reverse the early stages of tooth decay and strengthen weakened enamel by depositing minerals onto the tooth surface. However, it may not be sufficient to completely fix cavities that have progressed beyond the initial stage. For more advanced cavities, professional dental treatment such as fillings or other restorative procedures may be necessary to repair the damage. It's important to consult with your dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment of cavities.

Is fluoride better than remineralizing toothpaste?
No, nano hydroxyapatite is just as effective as fluoride in remineralizing toothpaste. Both ingredients work to strengthen tooth enamel and promote remineralization, albeit through different mechanisms. Fluoride has been widely used and studied for its ability to prevent cavities and strengthen teeth. Similarly, nano hydroxyapatite, with its similarity to the natural structure of teeth, can effectively replenish lost minerals and repair enamel. Therefore, both fluoride and nano hydroxyapatite are valuable components in remineralizing toothpaste formulations.

How often should you use remineralizing toothpaste?
We recommended to use remineralizing toothpaste at least twice a day as part of your oral hygiene routine. However, some individuals may benefit from using it more frequently, such as after meals or snacks, especially if they are prone to tooth sensitivity or enamel erosion. It's also important to follow the instructions provided by the toothpaste manufacturer and consult with your dentist to determine the most suitable usage frequency based on your specific dental health needs.