Do you know what ingredients are in your toothpaste? Different types of toothpaste have special ingredients that help prevent and reduce dental health issues. Like fluoride, a mineral that keeps teeth strong and resistant to acids formed by bacteria in dental plaque. But have you heard of hydroxyapatite? This is a mineral that occurs naturally in teeth and bones. Although you won't find it in every toothpaste, hydroxyapatite plays a role in helping keep your teeth strong. Learn about this mineral and some of its benefits.
What Is Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste?
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Medically Reviewed By Colgate Global Scientific Communications
What Is Hydroxyapatite?
Your teeth are a complex structure made of many different parts. Hydroxyapatite (HA) is one of the building blocks that make up your tooth enamel, dentin, and cementum. This naturally occurring mineral gives your teeth and bones their hard and strong quality. But did you know that plaque, as well as foods high in sugar and acidic drinks, can negatively affect your teeth? You can maintain your oral health and reduce the risk of enamel erosion by using toothpaste or mouthrinse that contains hydroxyapatite.
Benefits of Hydroxyapatite for Tooth Enamel?
What is tooth enamel? Why should you protect it, and how can you do this? Tooth enamel is the outer layer of your teeth. It is the hardest substance in the body and contains a high percentage of minerals, including hydroxyapatite. Taking good care of this part of your teeth is an excellent step towards overall dental health. So remember to avoid highly acidic and sugary foods and drinks. Be gentle when cleaning your teeth, as excessive or harsh toothbrushing can be harmful too. Luckily, you have a natural shield that protects your tooth enamel, saliva! Your saliva helps with remineralization, a continuous reparative process that builds and maintains tooth enamel.
Brushing with a toothpaste that contains active hydroxyapatite can assist with enamel restoration and remineralization too. Some toothpaste and mouthrinses contain a nanocrystal form of hydroxyapatite (nHA) or a zinc combination (Zn-HA). According to an article published in Materials, hydroxyapatite toothpaste can counteract the effects of sodas, energy drinks, and other acidic beverages. By forming a protective buffer on the enamel, HA/nHA can decrease mineral loss and tooth erosion.
How Does Hydroxyapatite Help Teeth Overall?
Strong, healthy tooth enamel is an important part of good dental health. Hydroxyapatite can help protect your tooth's outer layer, prevent demineralization, and rebuild tooth enamel. This can also reduce:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Periodontitis
- Oral bacteria
- Plaque
The next time you're at the dentist, remember to ask about hydroxyapatite toothpaste. If you experience enamel mineral loss or tooth sensitivity, your dentist may recommend a remineralizing toothpaste. This will help repair the outer layer of your teeth and improve your dental health too.
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This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
