What comes to mind when you think of the components in toothpaste? Perhaps fluoride comes to mind, a mineral that strengthens teeth and guards against cavities. Consider using different flavorings, such as mint. What about hydroxyapatite, though?
Should you be wondering, “hydroxy-what?” You’re not by yourself. Not only is hydroxyapatite toothpaste a mouthful, but it’s also not as well known as other toothpaste constituents like fluoride. Even though it’s not included in every toothpaste on the market, hydroxyapatite plays a part in maintaining the strength and health of your teeth.
hydroxyapatite. Although hydroxyapatite is not found in the majority of big drugstore brands’ formulae, it has been the subject of over forty years of research and dental care applications. Furthermore, it is biocompatible and nontoxic, which makes it a good choice for anyone looking for natural dental care products. Discover more about this component that dentists recommend and which toothpaste has the most hydroxyapatite by reading on.
What Is Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste?
Chemically speaking, hydroxyapatite is a naturally occurring kind of calcium apatite or calcium phosphate. This hydroxyapatite forms the bulk of the enamel and dentin in your teeth. The National Oral Health Programme of the IDA states that when you eat starchy foods like crackers, bread, cookies, and candies, your mouth’s bacteria feed on them and produce acids that damage your teeth for up to 20 minutes or more. Additionally, foods that are difficult to break down or stick to your teeth give the acids more time to erode the enamel of your teeth. The reason your tooth enamel is the toughest material in your body is because it contains hydroxyapatite.
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Tooth enamel is a robust, long-lasting material, but it is not unbreakable. According to the Open Dentistry Journal, tooth plaque, and food and drink acids can partially destroy enamel. Enamel must continually be remineralized to maintain your teeth healthy and free from cavities and erosion. Both saliva and brushing with fluoride toothpaste can aid in the remineralization process. Kinds of toothpaste with hydroxyapatite or calcium phosphate can also aid in the restoration and remineralization of enamel.
Natural Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste
Natural hydroxyapatite toothpaste can aid in the remineralization of enamel, lowering the risk of erosion and cavities. While it may be difficult to locate toothpaste with hydroxyapatite or calcium phosphate on the drugstore shelf, numerous research has looked at the impact the substance has on dental enamel. One study examined the impact of natural hydroxyapatite toothpaste on a group of eighty removed teeth and was published in the Journal of Dental Research, Dental Clinics, Dental Prospects. Forty teeth were brushed using regular fluoride toothpaste, and another forty teeth were brushed using a toothpaste that contained both fluoride and nano-hydroxyapatite (the term “nano-” denotes incredibly small hydroxyapatite particles). After demineralizing every tooth with an acid solution, one of the two toothpastes was applied twice a day for 15 days. By the end of the research, teeth brushed with toothpaste containing nano-hydroxyapatite had become significantly more remineralized (harder) than teeth brushed with toothpaste containing simply fluoride.
Another study looked at the potential effects of toothpaste with different hydroxyapatite concentrations on teeth and was published in the Korean Journal of Materials Research. Researchers made a variety of toothpaste types with hydroxyapatite concentrations ranging from 0 to 15%. Following extraction, the human teeth were drilled to create fake cavities, and the toothpaste samples were subsequently placed on them. The teeth brushed with the natural hydroxyapatite toothpaste containing the highest concentration of hydroxyapatite showed the most improvement in the strength of the enamel (remineralized) and the depth of the cavities was lessened after seven days of cycling between a demineralizing acid solution, a remineralizing solution, and brushing treatment.
Hydroxyapatite toothpaste benefits
Cavities Protection
When HAp is compared to fluoride toothpaste, it always works just as well or even better as a remineralizing agent. It works better than over-the-counter fluoridated toothpaste at preventing and reversing enamel erosion while also making human enamel micro harder. A study conducted in December 2019 found that a 10% hydroxyapatite concentration was equally effective at preventing and treating tooth decay in youngsters as an amine fluoride toothpaste. In a Japanese study, HAp was able to effectively reduce decay lesions on teeth, often known as “caries lesions” or “carious lesions,” and enhance enamel remineralization. The scientists found that the toothpaste’s ability to rebuild the enamel surface improved with its amount of hydroxyapatite. A 2019 study discovered that using hydroxyapatite toothpaste really resulted in a stronger tooth coating than fluoride toothpaste. Enamel was strengthened as a result, increasing its resistance to future breakdown. Furthermore, hydroxyapatite toothpaste won’t ever result in fluorosis, in contrast to fluoride toothpaste.
Biocompatible and Non-toxic
Fluoride is a neurotoxicant (a toxin that affects the brain) at high dosages, which is one of the main disadvantages of fluoride toothpaste. But because hydroxyapatite toothpaste is a biocompatible material, your body accepts it as a natural component. Most children use significantly more toothpaste than is recommended, according to the CDC. When you consider toothpaste that contains hundreds of times more fluoride than water, this becomes a serious issue. HAp toothpaste comes in a few varieties that contain nano-hydroxyapatite. It is necessary to synthesize this minuscule particle because it does not exist naturally. Nevertheless, there is no proof that these artificial particles are less harmful or biomimetic. (More information about HAp sizes can be found below.)
Teeth Whitener
Your teeth may get brighter and whiter using hydroxyapatite toothpaste even if it contains no whitening agents. As I’ve explained numerous times before, toothpaste is a dental substance used for polishing teeth. This indicates that cleaning your teeth isn’t necessary to disorganize the microorganisms on them—that is unless you want to polish your teeth instead of that. It can also be utilized for other advantages, such as promoting remineralization (in a manner that is comparable to the activity of fluoride, but distinct from it). The increased whitening effect is one of these advantages. Although HAp doesn’t alter the “polishing” action of toothpaste, it does add a whitening component that regular toothpaste doesn’t have. HAp essentially “fills in” the tooth enamel with a strong tooth structure, giving the illusion of whiter teeth.
Oral Microbiome Benefits
By using HAp toothpaste, you can shield your teeth from bacterial “acid attacks” without negatively affecting your oral microbiota. Conversely, fluoride has bactericidal properties and tends to eradicate oral germs. Many mouthwash companies believe they are enhancing oral health by getting rid of microorganisms. For the oral microbiome to work effectively and maintain the health of your mouth, the right balance of bacteria must exist. Although substances like triclosan, alcohol, and chlorhexidine may momentarily solve bacterial overgrowth difficulties, they ultimately create far more problems than they solve. Just as effectively as antibacterial chemicals, hydroxyapatite particles in toothpaste stop germs from adhering to tooth enamel while sparing the bacteria themselves. This is a big help since “acid attacks” (when bacteria “poop” out the high-carbohydrate food particles in your mouth) are caused by bacteria gathering on your teeth in one spot. Tooth deterioration is the result of those attacks. It protects against acid reflux disease and won’t harm your beneficial oral microbiota.
Avoid Acidic pH
It is best to keep the pH of the mouth slightly alkaline to prevent dental disease and irritation. HAp toothpaste helps teeth become more resilient to the mouth’s acidic pH, which would otherwise disintegrate and accelerate the deterioration of enamel.
Strengthen Gums
According to preliminary findings, using HAp toothpaste may assist people with gum disease in maintaining healthier gums. Pocket depth, bleeding gums, and plaque control were all improved.
Is Hydroxyapatite Good for Teeth?
NASA led the way in the 1970s in the medical use of hydroxyapatite because space travel caused astronauts to lose minerals in their teeth and bones. NASA granted a patent to the Japanese business Sangi Co. Ltd. in 1974 for the use of hydroxyapatite in dentistry. The company went on to develop the first toothpaste containing nano-hydroxyapatite in the world in 1980 and received a patent for the ingredient in 1990. Levine claims that “HAp has no controversial issues related to excessive fluoride and is safer in the minds of many people.” The dentist does point out that fluoride is “100% safe to use and required for certain people who require the strong efficacy for thinner enamel that fluoride gives, though, as we do not swallow toothpaste.
Since astronauts lost minerals in their teeth and bones during space travel, NASA took the lead in the 1970s in the application of hydroxyapatite in medicine. In 1974, NASA issued a patent to Sangi Co. Ltd., a Japanese company, for the application of hydroxyapatite in dentistry. The business went on to create the first toothpaste in history to contain nano-hydroxyapatite in 1980, and in 1990 it was granted a patent for the component. Levine asserts that “HAp has no controversial issues related to excessive fluoride and is safer in the minds of many people.” (The dentist notes that fluoride is “completely safe to use and necessary for some individuals who need the high efficacy for thinner enamel that fluoride provides, but since we do not swallow toothpaste.
How to Use Hydroxyapatite
Brushing is the greatest way to get the most out of hydroxyapatite when utilizing it for dental hygiene. You can use hydroxyapatite paste in its place, as it is unlikely to be found in its isolated natural state. By fortifying tooth enamel, hydroxyapatite toothpaste helps reverse and prevent cavities. It is recommended that you brush with hydroxyapatite and then leave it on your teeth without washing. The body will recognize the mineral as a normal, naturally occurring substance since it is biomimetic.
Wrap-Up
It presents a natural and effective alternative to traditional fluoride toothpaste. Its remineralizing properties strengthen enamel, reduce sensitivity, prevent cavities, and promote oral health without the concerns associated with excessive fluoride consumption. With its biocompatibility and non-toxic nature, hydroxyapatite toothpaste is suitable for individuals of all ages, including those with sensitive teeth. By incorporating hydroxyapatite toothpaste into your oral care routine, you can supercharge your smile and maintain strong, healthy teeth for years to come. So, why settle for ordinary toothpaste when you can embrace the remarkable benefits of hydroxyapatite for a brighter, healthier smile?
FAQs
1. What is hydroxyapatite toothpaste?
Hydroxyapatite toothpaste is a dental care product containing hydroxyapatite, a naturally occurring mineral found in teeth and bones. It aids in remineralizing enamel, preventing cavities, and promoting oral health.
2. How does hydroxyapatite toothpaste benefit teeth?
Hydroxyapatite toothpaste helps strengthen tooth enamel, reduces sensitivity, prevents cavities, and promotes enamel remineralization. It is also biocompatible, non-toxic, and may contribute to a whiter smile.
3. Is hydroxyapatite toothpaste suitable for sensitive teeth?
Yes, hydroxyapatite toothpaste is often recommended for individuals with sensitive teeth. Its remineralizing properties help strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity over time.
4. Can hydroxyapatite paste replace fluoride toothpaste?
Hydroxyapatite toothpaste can be an alternative to fluoride toothpaste for individuals seeking natural dental care options. However, it’s essential to consult with a dentist to determine the best choice for your oral health needs.
5. How does hydroxyapatite toothpaste compare to fluoride toothpaste?
Both hydroxyapatite and fluoride toothpaste are effective in promoting oral health. However, hydroxyapatite toothpaste offers additional benefits, such as biocompatibility, non-toxicity, and potential whitening effects, without the concerns associated with excessive fluoride consumption.
6. Are there any side effects of using hydroxyapatite toothpaste?
Hydroxyapatite toothpaste is generally considered safe for oral use with minimal side effects. However, individuals with specific dental concerns or allergies should consult with a dentist before use.
7. Can it be used by children?
Yes, hydroxyapatite toothpaste is suitable for children and adults alike. Its natural composition and remineralizing properties make it a safe and effective option for promoting oral health in individuals of all ages.
8. How often should toothpaste be used?
Hydroxyapatite toothpaste can be used twice daily, like regular toothpaste, for optimal results. Consistent use is essential for experiencing the full benefits of this natural dental care product.
