Scientists have discovered that a natural mineral called hydroxyapatite, found in fishbone, eggshell, and seashells, might be as good as fluoride to protect against cavities.
Fluoride is known to be effective, but too much of it can be harmful, especially for children who tend to swallow toothpaste. Hydroxyapatite could be a safer alternative for daily use, as it has been shown to prevent cavities and help with gum disease and tooth sensitivity. In a study involving 171 participants, some used toothpaste with hydroxyapatite, while others used fluoride toothpaste, and after 18 months, both groups showed no significant difference in new cavities.
Hydroxyapatite works in two ways: it prevents the loss of minerals from teeth that lead to cavities and supports the natural repair process of teeth. It falls under ‘minimally invasive’ dentistry, meaning no dentist visits or procedures are required, and it can easily be added to toothpaste for regular use. Although there are still more steps to be completed before replacing fluoride, hydroxyapatite is promising and has been approved as safe by regulators.