Dr. Michelle Jorgensen

January 8, 2025

If you’ve ever wondered what makes your teeth and bones strong, the answer is a fascinating mineral called hydroxyapatite.

This naturally occurring form of calcium phosphate is the very foundation of our enamel and bones. But in recent years, hydroxyapatite has become a hot topic in dental care . . .  particularly as a safer, non-toxic alternative to fluoride.

Let’s dive deep into what hydroxyapatite is, why it’s making waves in oral care, and how it can help you maintain strong, healthy teeth without the risks associated with traditional fluoride toothpaste.

Hydroxyapatite is a naturally occurring mineral that forms the hard tissues in our bodies, including bones and teeth. Composed mainly of calcium phosphate, it makes up about 70% of our bones and a staggering 96% of our tooth enamel.

These hexagonal crystals are what give our teeth and bones their strength and durability. The chemical structure of hydroxyapatite can vary, particularly in the form of calcium deficient hydroxyapatite, which has non-stoichiometric properties and varying calcium-to-phosphorus (Ca/P) ratios critical for understanding different calcium phosphate phases.

In its purest form, hydroxyapatite has been used in medical applications for decades, particularly in bone tissue regeneration and dental implants. Hydroxyapatite constitutes 65% to 70% of human bone weight and is crucial for bone health and treatment of bone-related diseases.

But it wasn’t until recently that this biocompatible hydroxyapatite found its way into toothpaste and oral care products as a non-toxic, effective alternative to fluoride.

Hydroxyapatite is a naturally occurring mineral form of calcium apatite, with the chemical formula Ca5(PO4)3(OH). This remarkable mineral is the primary component of bone tissue, responsible for its hardness and rigidity.

Structurally, hydroxyapatite is composed of calcium, phosphorus, and oxygen, arranged in a typical apatite lattice structure. When in its purest form, hydroxyapatite powder is white and boasts a high calcium content of around 40%, along with a phosphorus content of approximately 18%.

The calcium-to-phosphorus ratio stands at 1.67, making it an essential mineral for maintaining the strength and integrity of our bones and teeth.

Hydroxyapatite plays a pivotal role in the structural strength of bones and teeth, contributing significantly to bone regeneration.

In human bones and teeth, hydroxyapatite crystals are present in the form of plates or needles, measuring between 40-60 nanometers (nm) in length, 20 nm in width, and 1.5 to 5 nm in thickness.

Additionally, hydroxyapatite is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and preventing tooth decay, ensuring that our skeletal system remains robust and functional throughout our lives.

When our teeth are exposed to acids from food, drinks, or bacteria, minerals are pulled out of the enamel surface in a process called demineralization. This leaves the teeth vulnerable to decay and sensitivity. Hydroxyapatite can reverse this process by releasing calcium and phosphate ions that help to rebuild and strengthen the enamel.

Hydroxyapatite offers significant benefits for oral health, serving as a natural alternative to fluoride. It aids in the remineralization of enamel, reduces sensitivity, and combats dental erosion and caries.

Here’s what makes hydroxyapatite remarkable:

• Remineralization: It helps to restore enamel by filling in microscopic cracks and pits.

  
  

• Desensitization: It forms a protective coating that reduces tooth sensitivity.

  
  

• Whitening: By smoothing the enamel surface, hydroxyapatite can help to whiten teeth naturally.

For decades, fluoride has been the go-to ingredient for cavity prevention in toothpaste. But more and more people are questioning its safety, especially for children and pregnant women. So, how does fluoride compare to hydroxyapatite?

The biggest advantage of hydroxyapatite is that it’s completely safe. There’s no risk of fluoride toxicity or dental fluorosis, which are concerns with fluoride toothpaste. Plus, hydroxyapatite offers additional benefits like reducing sensitivity and promoting gum health—something fluoride doesn’t do.

At Living Well with Dr. Michelle, we’re passionate about offering fluoride-free toothpaste alternatives that protect your teeth and support your overall health.

There are two main types of hydroxyapatite used in dental products: nano-hydroxyapatite and micro-hydroxyapatite. While both offer excellent remineralization benefits, they differ in particle size and how they interact with your teeth.

• Particle Size: 1 to 100 nanometers

• Pros: Can penetrate deeper into the enamel surface and dentinal tubules, offering superior desensitization.

• Cons: There are ongoing debates about the safety of nano-sized particles entering the bloodstream through gum tissue.

• Particle Size: 100 nanometers to 10 micrometers

• Pros: Safer for long-term use and highly effective at remineralizing teeth and reducing sensitivity.

• Cons: May not penetrate as deeply as nano particles, but still offers excellent surface protection.

At Living Well with Dr. Michelle, we’ve chosen to use micro-hydroxyapatite in our remineralizing tooth powder and mouth rinse. We believe it offers the best balance of safety and efficacy for your oral health.

1. Restores Enamel: Hydroxyapatite helps to restore enamel that’s been worn down by acids.

2. Reduces Tooth Sensitivity: By blocking the dentinal tubules, it significantly reduces tooth sensitivity.

3. Promotes Gum Health: Hydroxyapatite helps with bleeding gums and supports healthier gum tissue.

4. Safe for All Ages: Unlike fluoride, hydroxyapatite is safe for children, pregnant women, and people with health concerns.

Hydroxyapatite is extensively used in bone tissue regeneration and repair due to its chemical similarity to the mineral component of natural bone. This similarity makes it an ideal material for various treatments aimed at aiding bone repair and regeneration, including hard tissue repair in teeth.

Hydroxyapatite has been shown to enhance osteoinductivity, meaning it can stimulate bone growth effectively. In the field of bone tissue engineering, hydroxyapatite nanoparticles are particularly valuable, as they accelerate dentin remineralization and serve as an excellent source of free calcium.

This not only promotes bone regeneration but also provides protection against dental erosion and caries, making hydroxyapatite a versatile and essential material in both medical and dental applications.

We’ve carefully formulated our tooth powder and mouth rinse to maximize the benefits of hydroxyapatite:

• Remineralizing Tooth Powder: Contains micro-hydroxyapatite, bentonite clay, and essential oils to help restore enamel and reduce sensitivity.

• Remineralizing Mouth Rinse: Combines hydroxyapatite with silver particles and healing herbs for a complete oral care solution.

Explore our products here.

Hydroxyapatite is a naturally occurring form of calcium phosphate that makes up the majority of our bones and teeth. It’s used in dental care products to restore enamel, reduce sensitivity, and promote oral health.

Yes! Research confirms that hydroxyapatite is a safe and effective alternative to fluoride. It’s non-toxic and poses no risk of fluoride toxicity or dental fluorosis.

Both are effective at remineralizing teeth and preventing cavities, but hydroxyapatite offers additional benefits like reducing tooth sensitivity and promoting gum health. Plus, it’s safe to swallow.

Nano-hydroxyapatite particles are smaller and can penetrate deeper into the enamel, while micro-hydroxyapatite is safer for long-term use and still offers excellent remineralization benefits. At Living Well with Dr. Michelle, we use micro-hydroxyapatite in our products.

Absolutely! Hydroxyapatite is safe for all ages and is a great option for parents who want a fluoride-free toothpaste for their kids.

Hydroxyapatite is a game-changer in oral care. As a fluoride alternative, it offers all the benefits of traditional toothpaste without the risks. Whether you’re looking to restore enamel, reduce sensitivity, or promote gum health, hydroxyapatite can help you achieve a healthier, brighter smile.

Ready to make the switch? Check out our remineralizing tooth powder and mouth rinse to experience the benefits of hydroxyapatite for yourself!