Why does The Smilist replace fluoride with hydroxyapatite?
Science

Why does The Smilist replace fluoride with hydroxyapatite?

Published on February 19, 2025

At The Smilist, we have always been committed to offering our customers the best natural solutions for optimal oral health! That is why we chose to replace fluoride with hydroxyapatite in our products.

Fluoride has long been a staple of dental care for cavity prevention, but recent studies show that hydroxyapatite is a natural, effective, and safe alternative for protecting and strengthening dental enamel! Here is everything you need to know:

Hydroxyapatite: a mineral naturally present in our teeth

Hydroxyapatite is a mineral compound that makes up 97% of tooth enamel and 70% of dentine (the inner layer of the tooth). Unlike fluoride, which works by hardening enamel at the surface (like a protective shell), hydroxyapatite integrates directly into the enamel. It repairs and remineralises teeth from within, helping to prevent cavities whilst reducing tooth sensitivity (Source: Biomimetic Hydroxyapatite vs. Fluoride Toothpaste for White Spot Lesions: Clinical Trial, Butera et al., 2022).

Why replace fluoride?

Fluoride is a recognised anti-cavity agent, but its use raises several concerns:

Risk of fluorosis: Excessive ingestion of fluoride can cause permanent white stains on teeth, particularly in children (Source: Biomimetic Hydroxyapatite vs. Fluoride for Enamel Repair in Deciduous Teeth, Bossù et al., 2019).

Potential toxicity: In high doses, fluoride can be harmful to neurological development and has been associated with certain adverse health effects (Source: Hydroxyapatite in Oral Care Products-A Review, Chen et al., 2021).

Equivalent efficacy to hydroxyapatite: Several studies show that hydroxyapatite is just as effective as fluoride at remineralising teeth and preventing cavity formation (Source: Hydroxyapatite vs. Fluoride Toothpaste for Cavity Prevention, Amaechi et al., 2019).

The benefits of hydroxyapatite

  • Deep remineralisation: Unlike fluoride, which only protects the surface of the enamel, hydroxyapatite penetrates microcracks and demineralised areas, promoting complete enamel regeneration (Source: Comparative effectiveness of therapeutic toothpastes with fluoride and hydroxyapatite, Makeeva et al., 2018).
  • Complete safety: Hydroxyapatite is biocompatible and risk-free, even in the event of accidental ingestion, making it an ideal solution for children (Source: Caries-preventing effect of a hydroxyapatite-toothpaste in adults, Paszyńska et al., 2023).
  • Reduced tooth sensitivity: By sealing exposed dentinal tubules, hydroxyapatite effectively reduces tooth sensitivity without the use of harsh chemicals (Source: Biomimetic Hydroxyapatite in Oral Care: Review on Dentin Hypersensitivity Reduction, Limeback et al., 2023).
  • Natural teeth whitening : It also helps to restore the natural whiteness of teeth by filling in enamel imperfections, without the abrasive effect of some whitening toothpastes (Source: Nano-Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste for Dentin Hypersensitivity, Vano et al., 2014).

The Smilist: towards a more natural dentistry!

By incorporating hydroxyapatite into our treatments and products, we are making a scientific, natural, and effective choice for our customers.

Our fluoride-free formulas protect oral health whilst reducing the risks associated with fluoride!

Discover our hydroxyapatite products:
-> Our remineralising toothpastes
-> Our solutions for sensitive teeth

At The Smilist, we believe in modern, natural dentistry that respects overall health. Hydroxyapatite is the future of dental care, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this change!

Ready to switch to a healthier form of dental protection?

Christiane, Dentist & Co-founder of The Smilist