🦷 Hydroxyapatite in Oral Care – The Natural Alternative to Fluoride
Last updated: April 2025
What is Hydroxyapatite?
Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is the primary substance our teeth are made of – it composes around 97% of tooth enamel and 70% of dentin. In the 1970s, NASA developed a synthetic form called nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp) to counteract bone and tooth loss in astronauts after long-term space missions.
Nano vs. Micro Hydroxyapatite – What’s the Difference?
Nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp) consists of particles measuring around 20–80 nanometers. These ultra-small particles can penetrate deep into the enamel and fill microscopic imperfections.
Micro-hydroxyapatite (µHAp), on the other hand, has on average a particle size ranging anywhere from 5-50 micrometers. Depending on size µHAp can still be small enough to integrate into the enamel surface and effectively remineralize teeth.
At Natch, we use micro-hydroxyapatite with a size of 1–3 µm, proven to safely and effectively restore tooth enamel.
Key Benefits of Hydroxyapatite in Oral Care
-
Remineralizes enamel and dentin
- Protects naturally against cavities
- Reduces tooth sensitivity
- Antibacterial effects
- Leaves enamel smoother and stronger
- 100% non-toxic and biocompatible
How Does Hydroxyapatite Work?
Sugary and acidic foods create acid in the mouth that slowly dissolves essential minerals from enamel – a process called demineralization. HAp helps reverse this process by replenishing lost minerals, filling micro-fissures in the enamel and restoring its structure.
A 2011 study published in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry demonstrated that nano-HAp significantly reduced dentin hypersensitivity by sealing open dentinal tubules.
Other research, such as Wang et al. (2016), confirms that hydroxyapatite (in nano and micro form) is highly effective in addressing sensitivity and remineralization.
A 2019 clinical trial by Kani et al. found that HAp toothpaste provided similar or superior protection against enamel erosion compared to fluoride-based toothpaste.
Fluoride vs. Hydroxyapatite – A Clean Comparison
Fluoride
Fluoride works by attracting calcium and phosphate ions from saliva to the tooth surface, creating a fluoride-rich layer that helps protect enamel. While effective, fluoride is not bioidentical to enamel – and excessive fluoride exposure can lead to:
- Dental fluorosis (permanent white spots)
- Stomach issues in children
- Toxicity when swallowed in high amounts
- Potential effects on cognitive development
Hydroxyapatite
Hydroxyapatite is bioidentical – it’s what our teeth are made of. It doesn’t just coat the surface; it restores what's missing. And unlike fluoride, it's non-toxic and safe to swallow, even for children.
A recent systematic review published in Frontiers in Public Health (2023) concluded that fluoride-free hydroxyapatite toothpaste provides comparable caries prevention to fluoride products in adults.
In Japan, hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste has been used for over 40 years – with excellent results and safety data, especially in children.
Final Thoughts
At Natch, we believe in conscious care powered by nature. Instead of questionable chemicals, we choose ingredients our bodies already know and trust.
Micro-hydroxyapatite offers a safe, effective, and science-backed way to protect your smile – without compromise.
Whether you prefer fluoride or hydroxyapatite, daily oral care habits like brushing, flossing, and regular checkups make all the difference. But if you’re looking for a gentle, natural, and smart alternative – micro-hydroxyapatite is our go-to alternative option.
