If you’re already familiar with our products, then you know our mission too. But if you’re meeting Nordics for the first time—welcome! At Nordics, we don’t just create products to address dental health issues. For us, it’s more than business. It’s a mission rooted in genuine care for your well-being.
What sets Nordics apart is our attention to detail and our constant pursuit of maximum efficiency. For years, we’ve focused on creating high-quality products that not only address existing dental concerns but also help prevent future ones.
In a previous article, we introduced you to hydroxyapatite, its origin and what it is. In this one, we’ll dive into the benefits of hydroxyapatite and why it plays such an important role in dental care.
To recap briefly: hydroxyapatite is the natural mineral responsible for giving your teeth and bones their hardness and strength. Expert studies have shown that it can help remineralize tooth enamel and even restore bone tissue—without any harmful side effects.
Hydroxyapatite-species
There are actually two types of hydroxyapatite used in dental care: micro and nano. The key difference—besides particle size—is their origin. Micro-hydroxyapatite (micro-HA) is typically derived from natural sources such as bovine (beef) bones, while nano-hydroxyapatite (nano-HA) is usually synthesized in a lab.
Both types are used in toothpaste formulations available on the market. However, nano-HA is generally considered the better option for people with sensitive teeth. Thanks to its smaller particle size, nano-HA can cover a larger surface area and more effectively fill in tiny cracks in the enamel. That said, micro-HA can still offer excellent results, especially in cases where nano-HA isn’t available.
If you’re hearing about hydroxyapatite for the first time, you might be wondering: Is it safe? Are there any side effects? In the next section, we’ll answer these and other common questions to help you feel confident about what you’re putting in your mouth.
Is hydroxyapatite safe?
Good news—hydroxyapatite is completely safe for your health! That’s because it’s a natural component already found in your teeth and bones. Its safety is backed by scientific research, including a 2014 study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), which specifically focused on nano-hydroxyapatite. Additional NCBI studies have confirmed the safety and effectiveness of both forms: hydroxyapatite and nano-hydroxyapatite.
So yes, both hydroxyapatite and its smaller sibling, nano-hydroxyapatite, are safe to use in toothpaste. In fact, research suggests that nano-hydroxyapatite may even be a safer alternative to fluoride-based toothpaste—especially for people sensitive to fluoride or at risk of overexposure.
Unlike fluoride, hydroxyapatite particles do not carry a risk of toxicity when used consistently over time. This makes them an excellent choice for groups with specific sensitivities or health concerns, such as:
- pregnant women;
- children;
- people prone to cavities and tooth decay;
- Individuals living in areas with high fluoride levels in the water
One reason for this safety is that nano-hydroxyapatite is biomimetic, meaning it mimics the natural biochemical structure of your teeth. Since it’s already a part of your body’s natural makeup, your body recognizes it—and responds positively.
Therefore, choosing toothpaste with hydroxyapatite is a smart step toward safer, more effective oral care.
Now that we’ve covered the safety side, let’s explore the benefits of hydroxyapatite and how it helps your smile stay strong and healthy.
Benefits of hydroxyapatite
Supports enamel remineralization
There are several conditions that can compromise the integrity of your tooth enamel and lead to the loss of essential minerals—especially calcium and phosphorus, which are critical for keeping your teeth strong and resilient. Acidic foods and drinks are a common culprit. They lower the pH level in your mouth and speed up the erosion of enamel.
Even if you avoid these and maintain excellent oral hygiene, the natural bacteria in your mouth can still break down food particles and release acids that gradually wear away your enamel. In some pathological cases, health conditions can also contribute. For instance, during certain gastrointestinal disorders, stomach acids may travel up into the mouth, causing further enamel damage over time.
This ongoing demineralization process weakens the enamel and can lead to increased sensitivity, cavities, and other dental issues. That’s where hydroxyapatite comes in—with its ability to restore lost minerals and help repair damaged enamel.
Studies show that toothpaste with hydroxyapatite supports the remineralization of tooth enamel, effectively restoring and strengthening it. Research also confirms that hydroxyapatite toothpaste is effective in preventing cavities and can deliver results comparable to those of fluoride-based toothpaste.
In one 18 month old double-blind randomized clinical trial, 60.7% of participants using hydroxyapatite paste showed no increase in caries lesions, compared to 57.5% in the control group using fluoride paste, indicating that hydroxyapatite is not inferior in effectiveness to fluoride in caries prevention.
A double-blind randomized trial is a type of clinical trial in which neither the researchers nor the test subjects know which ingredient they are taking, and randomization ensures that a random sample falls into a control and a test group of subjects. This method is the gold standard in medical research because it provides the most reliable results regarding the effectiveness and safety of a given treatment.
Another study, conducted over a 24-month period among children aged 4 to 7, found that both hydroxyapatite and fluoride toothpaste significantly reduced active caries lesions. Interestingly, the group using hydroxyapatite toothpaste showed an even higher number of inactivated lesions compared to the fluoride group, highlighting its potential as an effective and safe option for long-term cavity prevention—especially in children.
This natural mineral is capable of restoring enamel from the early stages of erosion and combating tooth decay, thanks to its essential minerals like calcium and phosphate.
Relieves sensitivity
Hydroxyapatite can soothe tooth sensitivity. It works by creating a protective layer over the exposed dentin (substance between enamel and the pulp cavity), which reduces the transmission of external stimuli to the nerve endings and thus relieves the pain associated with tooth sensitivity.
In addition, hydroxyapatite significantly improves tolerance to acids, temperature fluctuations, and sugar, which ultimately contributes to a better quality of life.
Caries prevention – “mission possible” with hydroxyapatite
Hydroxyapatite isn’t a “magic cure” that can erase existing cavities, but science has proven, that it is an excellent shield against them. This mineral acts as an “invisible barrier,” preventing bacteria from accumulating and forming plaque. Additionally, it helps remineralize the early stages of cavities, restoring lost minerals and strengthening enamel before further damage occurs.
If you’re seeking an alternative to fluoride, hydroxyapatite is a gentler option that still offers protection against cavities, but without the side effects. It doesn’t just protect your teeth, it strengthens them from within, helping them handle the daily challenges posed by food and drink.
Therefore, we recommend using toothpaste with hydroxyapatite at the first signs of cavities. With it, your teeth are not just protected from cavities – they become stronger and more resistant with each brushing.
Fights plaque-causing bacteria
Yes, hydroxyapatite is a powerful ingredient in the fight against plaque-forming bacteria. It acts as a natural defence by preventing the formation of oral biofilm. It has antibacterial properties and selectively eliminates certain strains of bacteria that disturb the balance in the oral cavity, thus protecting the teeth and gums. Additionally, hydroxyapatite breaks down already-formed biofilm, reducing the risk of demineralization and gum problems.
Natural compatibility with your teeth
Hydroxyapatite acts as a natural building block for your teeth—your body recognizes and accepts it. Since it’s already an essential component of tooth enamel and bones, its action is compatible with the natural processes in the oral cavity. Rather than just covering the teeth, hydroxyapatite bonds with them, filling in microcracks and restoring the enamel surface.
Stabilizes pH in the oral cavity
The pH indicator helps measure the level of acidity in the mouth, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy balance and preventing tooth decay. The normal pH of the oral cavity is slightly acidic or neutral, around 7. However, after consuming acidic foods or beverages—such as citrus fruits or sodas—the pH can drop, making the environment more acidic. This can heighten the risk of tooth enamel erosion and the development of cavities. Therefore, it’s crucial to maintain a balanced pH and prevent excessive acidity in the oral cavity.
Hydroxyapatite has the unique advantage of stabilizing the pH in the mouth, which contributes to a healthier environment in the oral cavity. Research shows that hydroxyapatite is acid-resistant, allowing it to effectively regulate the pH level in your mouth. This means that even when acidic substances such as citrus fruits or carbonated drinks are consumed, hydroxyapatite can help maintain a more neutral pH, reducing the risk of enamel erosion and promoting overall oral health.
Whitens teeth
Have you ever wished you could whiten your teeth by several shades without the need for additional procedures? Or wondered if there’s a secret ingredient that can help maintain a whiter smile with everyday use? If the answer is yes, then hydroxyapatite might just be the solution you’re looking for—it’s another great benefit of this powerful ingredient.
Toothpaste with hydroxyapatite also offers the benefit of teeth whitening through its gentle and useful stain-removal properties. An in vitro study shows, that hydroxyapatite toothpaste effectively removes surface stains from teeth, resulting in a brighter, whiter smile.
Unlike abrasive whitening toothpaste, which can contain SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) and cause enamel damage, hydroxyapatite pastes gently polish teeth, revealing their natural brightness without compromising the integrity of the enamel.
Hydroxyapatite can be an excellent choice for people with sensitive teeth who may experience discomfort using traditional whitening products.
An alternative to fluoride
Excessive fluoride consumption can be toxic, especially in infancy. Toothpaste with hydroxyapatite, on the other hand, does not contain fluoride but offers comparable effectiveness in restoring tooth enamel, strengthening teeth and suppressing the growth of plaque-causing bacteria. That makes it an excellent alternative to fluoride, as it achieves the same effects without the risk of toxicity.
Considering the many benefits of hydroxyapatite, it’s clear that it has the potential to become the “go-to” ingredient for addressing dental issues. Its natural ability to restore and strengthen enamel, coupled with its biocompatibility and non-toxicity, positions it as a strong contender for a leading role in modern dentistry.
Hydroxyapatite provides comprehensive protection, supporting not only the teeth but also the gums and the health of the oral cavity in general. As a reliable ally, it works tirelessly to improve your dental well-being, effectively addressing a variety of dental issues.
Its natural antibacterial properties create a healthier oral environment, reducing the risk of gingivitis and other infections. By adding hydroxyapatite to your daily dental care routine, you protect your gums, prevent oral disease, and maintain strong, healthy teeth.
If you notice the beginning of a carious process, or you want a whiter smile without worrying about the toxicity of products like fluoride, or you want to take even more comprehensive care of your dental health, do not hesitate to try the properties of hydroxyapatite.
We from Nordics are at your side, bringing together dental innovation and expertise to help solve dental problems and maintain excellent oral health.
Sources:
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\r\nElzbieta Paszynska
Elzbieta Paszynska, Malgorzata Pawinska, Joachim Enax, Frederic Meyer, Erik Schulze zur Wiesche, Theodor W. May, Bennett T. Amaechi, Hardy Limeback, Amadeusz Hernik, Justyna Otulakowska-Skrzynska, Anna Krahel, Inga Kaminska, Joanna Lapinska-Antonczuk, Ewa Stokowska, Maria Gawriolek, Caries-preventing effect of a hydroxyapatite-toothpaste in adults: a 18-month double-blinded randomized clinical trial, Front. Public Health , 18 July 2023;
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