Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste: What It Is and Who It Suits

Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in your body, and it still can’t grow back once it wears down. That’s why a mineral called hydroxyapatite has been getting so much attention in oral care.

It’s also the main mineral in enamel itself, which makes it an interesting thing to put in a toothpaste. Here is what it is, what the research says, and which of our toothpastes contain it.

What Is Hydroxyapatite?

Hydroxyapatite is the primary mineral that tooth enamel is made of. In toothpaste, it’s a lab-made version of that same mineral, used as tiny micro or nano particles. It was originally developed for astronauts, who lose mineral from their bones and teeth in space, and it has been quietly working its way into bathroom cabinets since.

The idea is simple. If enamel is made of hydroxyapatite, a toothpaste that supplies hydroxyapatite can help support it.

What Does the Research Say?

Quite a lot, and it’s still growing. A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis found that hydroxyapatite oral care products can be effective at reducing cavities without any fluoride. Earlier reviews also found that in lab and in-situ studies it performed as well as fluoride toothpaste, and sometimes better. The authors of those reviews do point out that more long-term clinical research is needed, which is a good reminder that this is an evolving area.

Hydroxyapatite and Fluoride: Not a Fight

Fluoride has decades of evidence behind it, and plenty of dentists recommend it. Hydroxyapatite is an alternative for people who would rather avoid fluoride, and it’s also considered safe if swallowed. That makes it a popular choice for young children, who tend to swallow a fair amount of toothpaste whether we like it or not.

If you or your child has a high risk of cavities, or your dentist has recommended fluoride, ask them before switching. Some of our hydroxyapatite toothpastes do contain fluoride too, for anyone who wants both.

Everyday Hydroxyapatite Toothpastes

For a straightforward switch, RiseWell’s Natural Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste comes in Wild Mint, and in a Flavourless version for anyone who prefers a neutral taste or finds mint too strong. Georganics makes hydroxyapatite toothpaste in tubes too, in Fennel and Fresh Mint, and a Prebiotics & Probiotics version if you’re interested in the mouth microbiome. The Fennel and Prebiotics & Probiotics ones are fluoride free, while the Fresh Mint includes fluoride.

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Natural Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste (Flavourless)

€19,95

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Natural Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste – Wild Mint

€6,95 – €19,95Price range: €6,95 through €19,95

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Toothpaste with Hydroxyapatite – Fennel – Fluoride Free

€5,90

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Prebiotics & Probiotics with Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste – Fluoride Free

€7,90

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PRO Mineral Toothpaste

€27,95

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Dentalmin PRO™ Remineralizing Toothpaste

€26,95

For Sensitive Teeth and Extra Support

If you want a higher concentration, RiseWell’s PRO Mineral Toothpaste combines micro and nano hydroxyapatite and is designed with sensitive teeth in mind. Dentalmin PRO from Biocidin Botanicals is another fluoride-free option, made with two types of hydroxyapatite. Its brand recommends not rinsing straight after brushing, so the minerals stay on the teeth for longer.

For Children

Because hydroxyapatite is safe if swallowed, it fits the toothbrushing stage where most of the paste ends up in the sink and some does not. RiseWell has Kids Mineral Toothpaste and Kids PRO Mineral Toothpaste, and Georganics has a fluoride-free Strawberry toothpaste with hydroxyapatite, which is usually an easy sell.

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Kids Mineral Toothpaste

€19,95

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Kids PRO Mineral Toothpaste

€27,95

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Kids Toothpaste with Hydroxyapatite – Strawberry – Fluoride Free

€5,90