5 Toothpastes with Nano-Hydroxyapatite: A Safer Alternative to Fluoride?

When it comes to your personal care routine, it’s worth considering the products you use daily and the ingredients they contain. Toothpaste is no exception—many contain fluoride, an ingredient that, while effective for remineralizing teeth, has raised safety and toxicity concerns over the years. An alternative to fluoride that's both effective and safe for oral health, called nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) has been promoted more and more, but is it safe?

What is Nano-Hydroxyapatite?

Nano-hydroxyapatite, or nHA, is a synthetic form of hydroxyapatite, a naturally occurring mineral that makes up a significant portion of human tooth enamel (around 90%) and bones. Developed by NASA in the 1970s to combat bone and enamel loss in astronauts, nHA mimics the structure of natural enamel, allowing it to bond seamlessly with the surface of your teeth. Supposedly, tts biomimetic properties make it an exceptional option for remineralizing enamel, managing dentin hypersensitivity, and brightening teeth naturally—all without the potential toxicity concerns of fluoride. Unlike fluoride, hydroxyapatite is non-toxic and safe to ingest in small amounts. It works by penetrating the teeth’s surface, repairing enamel from within and fortifying teeth against cavities and damage. 

For a deeper understanding of ingredients in toothpaste, check out this resource from Better & Better on why many are moving away from compounds like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): [Why Choose SLS-Free Toothpaste](https://betterandbetter.com/blogs/the-reverie/sls-in-toothpaste). 

Is Nano-Hydroxyapatite Safe?

Since hydroxyapatite occurs naturally in the body, nano-hydroxyapatite is has been considered safe, even when synthesized. Clinical studies have found no toxicity, inflammatory reactions, or adverse effects when using nHA in oral care products. However, animal studies have found toxicity to liver cells, lungs, and kidneys due to the systemic availability of ingested nano-hydroxyapatite. Another study found negative effects on red blood cells, and platelets, since the nano particles were found to stick to blood vessel walls. 

The size and shape of the nano particles is important.

According to studies on the difference between difference shapes of nano particles, the particles that are needle-shaped are more toxic, and includes any nano-sized needle-shaped fiber, yet few companies producing this product disclose what kind of nano particles are used. 

As noted by one author, "many brands of infant formulas contained hydroxyapatite as a form of calcium and phosphorous supplementation, researchers with the Center for Food Safety set out to find if these formulas contained nanoparticles, specifically in the most harmful needle-shaped form. According to their findings, all of the samples contained nanoparticles of some sort. Three contained needle-shaped N-HAP, " 

Is Nano-Hydroxyapatite Better Than Fluoride?

Several studies suggest that nHA is as effective as fluoride in remineralizing enamel, reducing tooth sensitivity, and preventing cavities. A notable study compared hydroxyapatite toothpaste to fluoride alternatives and concluded that they performed similarly for enamel repair, with the added benefit that nHA products are supposedly non-toxic.

Toothpastes with Nano-Hydroxyapatite

Not all toothpastes are created equal, and choosing the right one can make a difference in your oral health. Here are nine standout toothpastes featuring nHA you can consider adding to your routine:

1. BOKA – Best Plant-Based Formula

BOKA uses nano-hydroxyapatite as a key ingredient and takes a holistic approach with its formulas, promoting overall health through oral care. Their products are free of parabens and artificial flavors, and the brand also supports clean water access globally through philanthropic efforts.

2. Great Oral Health – Best with Probiotics

Alongside nHA, Great Oral Health incorporates dental probiotics into their offerings to reduce harmful bacteria and improve immune function. They also sell bamboo toothbrushes and essential oral oils, supporting sustainable oral health.

3. RiseWell – Best Product Line Variety

From kids’ toothpaste and travel packs to adult formulas, RiseWell offers a diverse product line centered on nHA. Backed by clinical research and touted as safe enough to eat, it’s a popular choice among natural health enthusiasts.

4. David’s – Best Accessibility in Stores

A recognizable name, David’s offers fluoride-free toothpaste featuring nHA that is easily available in major stores like Target. Known for transparency, the company only uses USA-sourced ingredients and prides itself on cruelty-free, vegan formulas.

5. The BEST Toothpaste Overall

Should You Switch to Nano-Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste?

If you’re looking to remineralize your enamel, reduce sensitivity, or prevent cavities—minus potential risks—nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste could be considered as alternative to traditional fluoride options. However, it is important to make sure it is not ingested, just like fluoride, due to the potential for system toxicity.

The toothpastes on this list may offer effective, natural oral care solutions to keep your smile healthy and bright but Dr. Clark's tooth powder was formulated because she believed that most toothpastes were disruptive to oral health in multiple ways. For example, she thought that the tiny fragments of calcium could get lodged in the gums, and that it could also cause abrasion of the enamel. Is nano-hydroyapatite a real solution or something that is more of a bandaid for emerging issues? Respond in the comment section below if you have had any experience with this product, or what your favorite natural toothpaste brands.