Nano-hydroxyapatite mimics a mineral found in our teeth and bones. It helps to remineralize teeth, close holes in the enamel surface that can contribute to tooth sensitivity, and helps to whiten teeth.
While some people are unsure if the ingredient is safe, studies have shown that it is safe to use in oral products and is already being used in orthopedics, bone repair, and cancer treatment as well.
This blog post will outline:
- The safety of Nano-hydroxyapatite
- How it works
- Whether it's okay to swallow
- What science has to say about the ingredient.
If you’re looking to move away from fluoride-containing formulas and want to reduce teeth sensitivity by supporting enamel strength, then this guide is for you!
Read on to find out if Nano-hydroxyapatite is safe to be used in toothpaste, and what it can do for your dental health.
What is Nano-hydroxyapatite?
Nano-hydroxyapatite, or n-Ha for short, is a synthetically produced form of calcium apatite – a naturally occurring mineral found in your bones and teeth.
NASA astronauts were the first to put this ingredient to good use.
Because of their lengthy missions in space and the challenge that the harsh environment posed to their teeth, there was a need for a compound that could be used in toothbrushes that both remineralized teeth and was safe to swallow.
Nano-hydroxyapatite is now used in various dental products including toothpaste, mouthwash, and dental restorative materials. Doctors have also made use of n-Ha in items such as orthopedic implants.
More recently, nano-hydroxyapatite (n-Ha) has been incorporated into oral care products to treat dentin hypersensitivity (DH) and promote enamel mineralization. n-Ha is able to reduce the pain associated with DH since nanoparticles are small enough to enter and fill the dentin tubules. The nanoparticles precipitate inside the tubules and consequently block the interaction of the nerves with the external stimuli.
n-Ha can also precipitate onto the enamel surface and remineralize initial enamel caries, resulting in the formation of a new apatite layer with increased enamel surface hardness and, therefore, preventing tooth decay.
In recent research published in “Nature Journal-Scientific reports,” cytotoxicity assays were performed in the worst predictable exposure scenario; the use of n-Ha in oral care products does not pose any safety concern.
How does it work?
If you’re looking for a fluoride substitute that works extremely well, nano-hydroxyapatite is arguably the best choice you could make!
In a double-blinded randomized clinical trial patients used either a hydroxyapatite toothpaste or a fluoride toothpaste for 18 months. At the end of this period, the patients using hydroxyapatite toothpaste were no more likely to develop cavities than the patients using fluoride.
You’re probably wondering how n-Ha works, so let’s explore the benefits you stand to gain by making the switch:
Brightens teeth
Nano-hydroxyapatite works by closing the small, microscopic pores on our teeth’s enamel. This helps to reflect light in a certain way that gives the appearance of bright, white teeth.
This is ideal for people who are looking to better the appearance of their teeth without the harmful side effects of bleaching or abrasives.
Remineralizes teeth
More importantly, nano-hydroxyapatite provides an important source of calcium and phosphate that allows for the remineralization of demineralized enamel areas.
Scientists assert that “when synthetic nHA is applied onto the tooth surface, the nanoparticles penetrate the tooth porosities, forming a protecting coating on the tooth surface.”
Helps reduce sensitivity
By remineralizing teeth, we strengthen the tooth’s structure and help prevent sensitivity.
Tooth sensitivity can be debilitating; we all know the cringe-inducing feeling of having an ice block make contact with our teeth directly!
By working to build up the coating on our teeth and filling small gaps, nano-hydroxyapatite can help target the cause of tooth sensitivity.
Antibacterial properties
Due to the small size of nano-hydroxyapatite particles, they can bind to bacteria and stop them from adhering to our teeth.
This, in turn, can minimize plaque buildup and help you maintain the freshest breath possible.
What Does The Research Say About The Safety Of Nano-hydroxyapatite?
There have been numerous studies looking at the safety of nano-hydroxyapatite. Some of the major findings supporting its safety in dental use include:
- A 2022 study focusing on the effectiveness of hydroxyapatite toothpastes (such as n-Ha) against dental caries found that the chemical has no reported adverse effects. This is in contrast to the traditional fluoride option, which has been well-established to cause fluorosis, toxicity, and irritation of the digestive system.
- Addressing safety concerns about n-Ha toothpastes, a recent 2019 study demonstrated that the chemical is compatible with human cells. This means n-Ha doesn’t cause any irritation to or damage cells, making it perfectly safe for use in oral care.
- More on the safety of n-Ha: another study found that the chemical isn’t readily absorbed through the skin or mucus lining. Therefore, even if n-Ha makes its way into the bloodstream, it doesn’t pose negative effects on the body and cells are able to clear out the concentration in a few hours.
- In terms of its effectiveness, a study from 2020 showed that n-Ha greatly reduces the ability of harmful bacteria to survive on teeth surfaces both in the early stages and when sufficient time has passed for bacteria to create a biofilm layer. As such, n-Ha is a promising treatment for dental caries and protection from harmful microorganisms.
- As shown earlier, n-Ha deposits minerals into the gaps on the surface of teeth – creating a tougher barrier against bacteria. Unlike fluoride, the remineralization effect of n-Ha doesn’t depend on floating calcium and phosphate in the saliva – making it much more effective compared to traditional toothpaste.
- Finally, if you’re worried about what happens when you swallow n-Ha toothpaste, you can rest assured that n-Ha will dissolve in your stomach quickly. There isn’t any safety risk with ingesting n-Ha – and as we’ve mentioned above, it doesn’t pose any risk even if it finds its way into your bloodstream. n-Ha is a naturally occurring chemical, so there’s no danger if you do swallow it (try not to, though!).
Is Nano-hydroxyapatite Safe To Swallow?
Studies show that Nano-hydroxyapatite is safe to swallow. That’s why it’s now being put into toothpaste!
This was one of the attributes that made it so attractive for NASA astronauts.
Unlike fluoride toothpaste which shouldn’t be swallowed, toothpaste containing Nano-hydroxyapatite will not have bad side effects when ingested.
This is great news for parents who know that kids like to swallow just about anything they can get their hands on!
Conclusion
Nano-hydroxyapatite has been used in dental procedures, orthopedics, bone repair, cancer treatment and toothpaste for many decades to date.
Due to the unique properties of this compound, it can mimic our teeth’s natural minerals and help support enamel health and strength.
The small size of the particles allows the formula to smooth out the surface of your teeth, leaving them bright and white while still being safe for sensitive teeth.
Additionally, it is perfectly safe to swallow, which is great for when you’re on the go or if you have little ones!
Many studies have shown that Nano-hydroxyapatite is safe to use in toothpaste and can have numerous benefits for your oral health.
Try Boka’s Non-Toxic And Dentist-Approved Toothpaste
If you are looking to try a toothpaste that is powered by Nano-hydroxyapatite, then you may be interested in Boka’s range of toothpastes!
We’ve invested in Nano-hydroxyapatite-rich formulas which are both safe to use and great for your oral health.
Our unique formula also comes in various flavors: think lemon lavender, orange, and watermelon! These delicious flavors can be a great way to promote optimal oral hygiene in young children, as well as allow adults to try something different.
Some of the benefits of Bokas toothpaste include:
- Helps to remineralize teeth: A source of calcium and phosphate, n-Ha allows for the remineralization of demineralized enamel areas
- Supports enamel health: By smoothing over gaps in your enamel, Boka toothpastes effectively support the strength of your enamel
- Free of sulfates, parabens, fluoride – all of the nasty ingredients you don’t want!
- Fills the gaps: Fills the little gaps in our teeth and helps brighten teeth, making them look whiter and brighter than before.
- Great for sensitive teeth: Nano-hydroxyapatite-containing toothpaste helps to protect and restore the minerals in our teeth which cover the nerves that cause tooth sensitivity pain. It is also a great option for people who want to improve the appearance of their teeth without harmful bleaching procedures.
- Removes plaque and avoids tartar buildup: n-Ha has antibacterial properties, helping to reduce bacterial damage and bad-smelling breath
- Great taste: Boka toothpaste is available in many great flavors, enjoyable for kids and parents alike
- Vegan and cruelty-free: Need we say more?
We also offer various discounts and subscription programs to help you avoid the dreaded end-of-tube squeeze. Try Boka for yourself!