In the last few years I’ve had an increased number of patients who no longer want fluoride treatments or toothpaste. There are many different reason’s why people don’t want fluoride. Despite educating them on the benefits and the clinical studies, some still decline the option for fluoride treatment. As a Dental Hygienist, I accept the fact there are a large number of people who support the anti-fluoride movement. Because of this I wanted to find a natural alternative to fluoride that is non-toxic and is still beneficial to patients teeth!
The search led me to a mineral/ingredient called….HYDROXYAPATITE (HA).
This mineral/ingredient is a great alternative for people to use if they do not want to use Fluoride. Hydroxyapatite is a naturally occurring mineral that makes up 97% of our tooth enamel. It is scientifically-proven to strengthen and protect your teeth without fluoride. For over a decade I have recommended a product called MI Paste that has HA in it. However, it was only available from your dental office. Now this wonderful alternative is available in OTC dental products!
Hydroxyapatite is not as well-known in the US but is increasingly being used by smaller companies in OTC dental products. Japan has used Hydroxyapatite rather than flouride in their toothpaste for over 40 years. Since at least 2006, Europe used it as an alternative to fluoride toothpaste.
Hydroxyapatite is completely natural and it is harmless if you or your child swallows it. Hydroxyapatite is a key element supporting remineralization and protecting against caries (cavities) and dental erosion. Hydroxyapatite is one of the most studied biomaterials in the medical field. HA is completely compatibility and an essential ingredient of your teeth and bones. This is why I am recommend HA as a great alternative choice for my patients, family, or friends.
Numerous journals and studies on hydroxyapatite/nano-hydroxyapatite outline the benefits of this revolutionary mineral. I attached a research study that highlights the significant remineralizing effects on initial enamel lesions (dental language for remineralizing small cavities ;)). It demonstrates hydroxyapatites superiority to conventional fluoride. Additionally, the study found good results for people who suffer with sensitive teeth. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4252862/
Fun fact from the article I attached: “The Japanese company Sangi Co. Ltd was the first to take an interest in hydroxyapatite, after purchasing the rights from NASA (U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Authority) in 1970. The astronauts, in fact, lost minerals from the teeth and bones in the absence of gravity, and NASA proposed a synthetic hydroxyapatite as a repairing material. The Sangi Co. Ltd had the idea in 1978 to launch toothpaste that could repair the tooth enamel, which contains for the first time nano-hydroxyapatite (Apadent).” Read the attach linked if interested in the research. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4252862/
If you’re still using fluoride-free toothpaste, it’s a good idea to switch to HA toothpaste. If you’re someone who is concerned with fluoride toxicity, including pregnant moms, children, and people who are commercially exposed to fluoride, this option is a much better choice instead of just fluoride free dental products.
Using Hydroxyapatite toothpaste is a better option and more beneficial than using Fluoride-Free products! HA is very effective and nontoxic!
With all the research and data available I am happy to recommend HA to my patients to use as an alternative to fluoride. The best way to use hydroxyapatite toothpaste to prevent and remineralize cavities is to leave it on your teeth after brushing! (This is just my recommendation) Translation: Don’t rinse your mouth after brushing with HA, brush with it…spit it out….don’t rinse or put a wet toothbrush back in your mouth. Remember HA is NON-TOXIC so you don’t have to worry about Poison Control warnings or getting sick.
If you are someone who uses Fluoride Free products I will post some articles with great alternative dental products that use Hydroxyaptite in their ingredients. So check back soon for a follow up post!
Ask your Dental Hygienist or Dentist about Hydroxyapatite if your interested.
As always I hope this starts the conversation!!!!
Leave a Reply