Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste

What is hydroxyapatite toothpaste?

Hydroxyapatite is the calcium phosphate mineral that makes up most of your tooth enamel. Hydroxyapatite toothpastes add a synthetic form of it, usually as micro- or nano-sized particles, and most are sold as fluoride-free alternatives.

What the research says

The evidence is promising but still developing. A 2024 review in the Journal of Dentistry (Pawinska et al., 13 studies) concluded that hydroxyapatite is effective against cavities without fluoride. An earlier 2022 review in Clinical Oral Investigations (Wierichs et al.) found the evidence not yet conclusive. A dentist at the Medical University of South Carolina sums it up: it may be a reasonable option if you decline fluoride, but the FDA hasn't approved it as an anticavity ingredient, and switching from fluoride isn't standard advice. The ADA Seal for cavity protection still requires fluoride.

What we stock

  • Terra & Co. Gentle Green: vegan and low-abrasion, with 8 to 10% hydroxyapatite and xylitol, made without sulfates and artificial colors or flavors.
  • Terra & Co. Brilliant Black: a whitening paste with micro-hydroxyapatite, charcoal and xylitol, in a 1 oz travel size or 3.4 oz.
  • SAINT Mint: made in the USA with nano-hydroxyapatite and cold-pressed mint, in packs of 1 to 6.

How to choose

  • Nano or micro: most products use nano-hydroxyapatite. Europe's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety has judged nano-hydroxyapatite safe at specified concentrations in toothpaste. Terra & Co. uses a micro form if you'd rather avoid nanoparticles.
  • Sensitivity: Gentle Green is the low-abrasion option.
  • Whitening: Brilliant Black adds charcoal for surface stains.
  • Ask your dentist, especially if you've had recent cavities, and before choosing a toothpaste for a child.

More fluoride-free options are in natural toothpaste, and our fluoride-free toothpaste guide covers the full picture.

Sources

Read our full guide: Hydroxyapatite toothpaste: does it work? Nano vs. micro, compared.

Questions

What is hydroxyapatite toothpaste?

A toothpaste made with hydroxyapatite, the calcium phosphate mineral that makes up most of tooth enamel. Most are sold as fluoride-free alternatives.

Is hydroxyapatite toothpaste as good as fluoride?

Research is promising but still developing. A 2024 review found it effective against cavities, while a 2022 review called the evidence inconclusive. The ADA Seal for cavity protection still requires fluoride, so ask your dentist.

Is nano-hydroxyapatite safe?

Europe's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety has judged nano-hydroxyapatite safe at specified concentrations in toothpaste. If you prefer to avoid nanoparticles, Terra & Co. uses a micro form.

Is hydroxyapatite toothpaste fluoride-free?

All three hydroxyapatite toothpastes we stock are fluoride-free.

Can kids use hydroxyapatite toothpaste?

Ask your child's dentist or pediatrician before choosing a toothpaste for a child.

Do any of these toothpastes contain xylitol?

Terra & Co. Gentle Green and Brilliant Black both list xylitol. If you want xylitol without hydroxyapatite, Coral Fluoride Free Mint Toothpaste lists it too; see all natural toothpaste.