Remineralization: Why Hydroxyapatite is more than just a Buzzword and the Future of Cavity Prevention.

You have already heard the hype.  The market is literally being flooded with new brands of toothpastes and gums touting its scientific difference to the polarizing chemical of "Fluoride".  

But here’s the truth: not all Hydroxyapatite is created equal. Most people don’t realize how this ingredient works, or how it should work. Especially...when it comes to actually protecting your enamel between brushes.  Which is why I want you to understand this powerful bioactive. 

What Is Hydroxyapatite?

Hydroxyapatite (Ca₁₀(PO₄)₆(OH)₂) is a naturally occurring mineral form of calcium apatite and the primary component of your tooth enamel and bone. It’s biocompatible, biomimetic, and bioavailable. That means your body recognizes it, accepts it, and uses it.

When used in oral care, nano or micro-hydroxyapatite particles integrate into microscopic defects and demineralized zones in enamel, actively remineralizing teeth and restoring surface smoothness and integrity.[1]However, in commercial use it comes in two shapes.

Spherical vs Conical: Why Shape Changes Everything

Hydroxyapatite used in oral care generally comes in two forms: spherical and conical.

Conical Hydroxyapatite is cheaper to produce but less effective. Its cone, rod-like shape does not mimic the structure of natural enamel and offers less surface integration. This is why toothbrushes are needed to mechanically force it into the tiny pits of the enamels.

Spherical Hydroxyapatite, like what we use in MoreGood Gum™, is engineered to mirror the natural crystalline structure of your teeth. This allows it to bind more seamlessly to damaged enamel and promote effective remineralization…even in hard-to-reach areas where brushing can’t reach..

The shape difference isn't cosmetic...it’s functional. Spherical particles offer superior coverage and adhesion, especially when enhanced by ingredients like Zinc Citrate, which helps create an ionic foundation that facilitates stronger bonding between hydroxyapatite and enamel.

How Zinc Citrate Supercharges Hydroxyapatite

This is where the entourage effect kicks in.

Zinc Citrate lays down a bioavailable ion matrix on the tooth surface. Think of it as preparing the "landing pad" - creating an electrostatic environment where hydroxyapatite particles can anchor more effectively.

• Zinc ions (Zn²⁺) displace calcium ions (Ca²⁺), making space for new mineralization.
  
  
• This enhances biologic binding, meaning you don’t always need mechanical pressure (like a toothbrush) for reattachment.
  
  
• It also reinforces the enamel surface, making it more resistant to acids and plaque formation.
  
  

The result: non-abrasive, biologically active enamel repair, Every time you chew.

Demineralization Happens Daily

Every meal, snack, and acidic beverage contributes to a slow erosion of your enamel. It’s not a catastrophic event.  It’s a daily micro-assault that most people won’t notice until it’s too late (When your teeth start hurting).

Hydroxyapatite works proactively.  It is preventative.  When it comes into contact with demineralized enamel, it deposits calcium and phosphate ions directly into those weakened areas, filling microscopic gaps and even smoothing the surface of your teeth [2].

Safer Than Fluoride…But Just as Effective?

Yes. In fact, clinical studies show that nano-hydroxyapatite can perform on par with fluoride in preventing cavities and in some cases, it outperforms it when it comes to sensitivity reduction and surface repair[3].

Where fluoride works by creating a harder, more acid-resistant surface layer (fluoroapatite), hydroxyapatite works by mimicking your natural enamel. It doesn’t just protect. It helps rebuild.

And unlike fluoride, there’s no toxicity threshold to worry about.  That makes it ideal for people who want performance without risk...

-The Scotty caveat with this, "I trust nature more than a corporate made chemical, but you need to do your own research.  Your own health is your responsibility. Fluoride is polarizing, but I have a fundamental belief that the human body has to evolve to deal with new chemicals and that takes a couple of generations.  I personally choose not to use fluoride, because I am only a generation separate from my Native American Ancestors.  One day, I will write about it, but it is not important for this...what is important is that you choose. You do your own due diligence, I am only giving you an option."-

Hydroxyapatite in MoreGood Gum™: Strategic Absorption Through the Oral Mucosa

When embedded in our LiquidCore™ delivery system, hydroxyapatite gains a new advantage: time and contact. Because MoreGood Gum™ is chewed ,  not rinsed or spat, The active particles remain suspended in the mouth longer, increasing their ability to bond to enamel and enter microscopic pores as you chew the gum.

Combined with Totarol™ (which cleans the playing field) and Zinc Citrate (which binds sulfur, prevents gum disease and donates Ions to the enamel), hydroxyapatite has the perfect stage to rebuild, strengthen, and defend your teeth every time you chew.

This is not a rinse and repeat. This is a rebuild and repeat.  See the difference? 

Why Health Conscious Consumers, Dentists, and Parents Are Taking Notice

Hydroxyapatite is now used in Japan and Europe as a mainstream alternative to fluoride. But elite biohackers and forward-thinking dental professionals are now pushing for multi-functional delivery systems like chewing gum, because they offer:

• Longer exposure time
  
  
• Greater absorption
  
  
• Superior post-brushing support
  
  
• Saliva stimulation (essential for remineralization)
  
  

Final Word: Protect Your Smile From the Inside Out

Your enamel won’t heal itself. It has no blood supply. That means once it’s gone.  It is gone.

Hydroxyapatite is the only known natural material that can help you fight back biologically by restoring what is lost daily, before critical acute Dental care is needed.

If you’re looking for a daily upgrade to your oral care…one that supports remineralization, reduces sensitivity, and plays well with the oral microbiome…hydroxyapatite is the ingredient to use.

With MoreGood Gum™, it’s delivered right where you need it, exactly when you need it. This is why I call it, "On the Go" Bioactive Oral Care.  

📚 References

1. Huang, S., Gao, S., & Yu, H. (2009). Effect of nano-hydroxyapatite concentration on remineralization of initial enamel lesion in vitro. Biomedical Materials, 4(3). https://doi.org/10.1088/1748-6041/4/3/034104
   
   
2. Najibfard, K., Ramalingam, K., Chedjieu, I., & Amaechi, B. T. (2011). Remineralization of early caries by a nano-hydroxyapatite dentifrice. Journal of Clinical Dentistry, 22(5).
3. Tschoppe, P., Zandim, D. L., Martus, P., & Kielbassa, A. M. (2011). Enamel and dentine remineralization by nano-hydroxyapatite toothpastes. Journal of Dentistry, 39(6), 430–437. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdent.2011.03.008