Nano-hydroxyapatite is a biocompatible, naturally occurring material used in dentistry for years. The nanocrystalline structure of nano-hydroxyapatite allows it to be more biocompatible than other calcium phosphate ceramics.
Key Takeaways
|
Nano-hydroxyapatite contains the same natural mineral (calcium, phosphate, and potassium nitrate) as bone. These ingredients are also readily available in Dr. Brites products like Healthy Smile Toothpaste - Coconut Chai, which greatly improves oral health. When nano-hydroxyapatite gets implanted into bone or soft tissue sites, it remodels into a natural bone and incorporates itself within the body. The process is known as biomineralization or biomimicry. Learn more about what is nano-hydroxyapatite below:
So, What is nano-hydroxyapatite?
Nano-hydroxyapatite is a synthetic form of hydroxyapatite, a naturally occurring mineral found in human teeth and bones. It is produced in a laboratory setting using a combination of chemicals and processes.
Nano-hydroxyapatite is commonly used in oral care and beauty products as a whitening agent to improve skin appearance. Many advertise it as a natural and effective way to whiten teeth like Dr. Brite’s Extreme Teeth Whitening Toothpaste and Mouthwash - Duo. However, concerns have got raised about hydroxyapatite's(nano) safety in recent years.
Before we dive deeper into what nano-hydroxyapatite is, let’s discuss some interesting facts about the material.
Some Facts You Should Know About Hydroxyapatite
Hydroxyapatite is a compound that the body uses to stimulate bone growth and teeth. Experts use it in various ways, including as a dental implant, bone graft material, and surgical aid. Dental hygienist practitioners have used it for several years but have expanded in recent years to other applications. Here are more facts you need to know:
- Hydroxyapatite can help to refill lost natural minerals in your enamel surface and repair your tooth surface.
- It can smoothen and whiten teeth by gently repairing the surface or sensitive teeth with native minerals.
- Hydroxyapatite can plug exposed dentin tubules, which can effectively reduce tooth sensitivity.
- It can help to guard against tooth decay and dental caries by protecting harmful dietary acids.
- Hydroxyapatite is bioactive, osteoconductive, and non-toxic, making it a safe and effective option for oral care and beauty products.
Where is nano-hydroxyapatite Derived From?
Nano-hydroxyapatite comes from the mineral apatite, a naturally occurring compound in our teeth. It is a type of calcium phosphate and is similar to tooth enamel in structure. Apatite naturally occurs in many minerals, including marble, limestone, and chalk.
Nano-hydroxyapatite is produced by taking calcium phosphate and phosphate ions and dissolving them into a solution modified to keep the particles small. The solution is then coated onto a dental implant or another medical device, producing a rigid surface that will not wear down as quickly as natural bone.
Nano medical hydroxyapatite has been proven effective in treating osteoporosis because it stimulates new bone growth in direct contact with living tissue.
The material is also bio-compatible, similar to your own body's natural minerals. Because it's non-toxic and chemically inert, you can safely use it in your mouth without fear of harmful side effects.
Is nano-hydroxyapatite Safe to Use?
Nano-hydroxyapatite is a mineral from the bones and teeth of animals and humans. It's a naturally occurring substance used for centuries in the medical field. In addition, many manufacturers use it as an ingredient in cosmetics, such as toothpaste, moisturizers, facial scrubs and creams, and even makeup removers.
How Come nano-hydroxyapatite Was Banned In Europe?
The European Commission(EC) questioned the safety of nano-hydroxyapatite (specifically made up of rod-shaped nanoparticles) in oral cosmetic products. The commission asked the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety(SCCS) to investigate how safe Nano-HA is.
After reading the opinions of the SCCS, EC concluded the committee’s findings were not enough to validate the safety of hydroxyapatite(nano). Hence, the EC prompted the European Union to ban nHAp on cosmetic products.
Nano-hydroxyapatite Benefits
Nano-hydroxyapatite is a type of calcium phosphate reduced to a nanometer particle size. It has become an alternative to fluoridated toothpaste for years now. According to Dr. Brite, the benefits of nano medical hydroxyapatite include the following:
- Strengthening your teeth and supporting dental enamel when used as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle
- Using the Nano-HAp toothpaste helps in reducing the risk of cavities, especially in areas prone to decay, like the molars.
- Compared to fluoride toothpaste, nano-hydroxyapatite toothpastes help to improve oral health by reducing gum inflammation and improving gum health.
How does nano-hydroxyapatite Protect Your Enamel From Acidic Food and Drinks?
Nano-hydroxyapatite forms a protective layer over your teeth, which can then resist the damage caused by acidic foods. Therefore, you won't need to worry as much about enamel erosion or dental decay as you usually would.
Nano medical hydroxyapatite has gone through several tests in clinical trials. It's effective at protecting your enamel against erosion caused by acidity in foods like orange juice and wine, as well as cola drinks, coffee, and tea.
Hydroxyapatite toothpaste is also free of fluoride, so it's safe for children who are too young to use fluoridated toothpaste. However, such kids toothpaste still protects against dental decay thanks to its ability to strengthen the enamel on your teeth.
Why Your Teeth Need Protection From Acidic Foods & Drinks
Most foods and drinks contain some level of acidity. For example, acids found in fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and coffee. The acidity level in these foods varies widely, but they all have the potential to erode your enamel if you don't take steps to protect it.
When you eat or drink something acidic, the pH level of your saliva rises as it tries to neutralize the acidity by releasing calcium ions into the mouth. These calcium ions come from your teeth, making them more susceptible to erosion by other acids in food or drink. Over time, this constant exposure to acidic substances can cause holes in your enamel called cavities (caries).
Use With Caution!
Nano-hydroxyapatite is an exciting new development in dental care that has the potential to provide a much more effective alternative to traditional toothpaste. It's important to remember that no one product works for every person, and many dental care products are on the market today. It's up to each consumer whether or not they want to try a toothpaste containing nano-hydroxyapatite themselves.
FAQs
1. Is nano-hydroxyapatite Safe?
Yes, nano-hydroxyapatite is safe. It's a natural compound that consists of calcium, phosphorus, and oxygen. It has been used in the dental field for decades and has many proven benefits, including bone regeneration and wound healing.
2. Can nano-hydroxyapatite Reverse Cavities?
Yes, nano-hydroxyapatite can reverse cavities. There is some evidence that nano-hydroxyapatite may be effective at reversing cavities and repairing damaged teeth. However, it is essential to note that the safety of using nano-hydroxyapatite for this purpose has yet to get fully established, and more research is needed to determine its long-term effects on oral health.
3. Can Nano-HA Whiten Your Teeth?
Yes, Nano-HA can whiten Your Teeth. It's believed to work by removing deposits and lubricating the surface of teeth, which can help to smooth and gloss the teeth. Experts claim that the bleaching effects of Nano-HA occur due to the filling of micropores in tooth enamel, which restores mineral deposits to the surface of the teeth.
4. How Does nano-hydroxyapatite work?
Nano-hydroxyapatite works as a source of calcium and phosphate for the body to use in bone formation. It also promotes the release of proteins that stimulate new bone formation by osteoblasts (bone-building cells). When you add nano-hydroxyapatite to your diet, these proteins are released at an increased rate, resulting in stronger bones.
