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! This is why we have chosen to replace fluoride with hydroxyapatite in our products. 

Fluoride has long been a staple of dental care to prevent cavities, but recent studies show that hydroxyapatite is a natural, effective and safe alternative to protect and strengthen tooth enamel! We explain it all to you:

Hydroxyapatite: a mineral naturally present in our teeth

Hydroxyapatite is a mineral compound that represents 97% of tooth enamel et 70% of dentin (the inside of the tooth). Unlike fluoride, which works by hardening the surface enamel (like a shell), hydroxyapatite integrates directly into the enamel. It repairs and remineralizes teeth in depth, thus helping to prevent cavities while 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 recognized anti-caries agent, but its use raises several concerns:

Risk of fluorosis : Excessive ingestion of fluoride can cause permanent white spots on the teeth, especially 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 some adverse health effects (Source: Hydroxyapatite in Oral Care Products-A Review, Chen et al., 2021).

Effectiveness equivalent to hydroxyapatite : Several studies show that hydroxyapatite is just as effective as fluoride to remineralize teeth and prevent the formation of cavities (Source: Hydroxyapatite vs. Fluoride Toothpaste for Cavity Prevention, Amaechi et al., 2019). 

The benefits of hydroxyapatite

  • Deep remineralization : Unlike fluoride, which only protects the surface of the enamel, hydroxyapatite penetrates into microfissures and demineralized areas, promoting complete regeneration of enamel (Source: Comparative effectiveness of therapeutic toothpastes with fluoride and hydroxyapatite, Makeeva et al., 2018).
  • Absolute security : Hydroxyapatite is biocompatible and safe, even if accidentally ingested, making it a ideal solution for children (Source: Caries-preventing effect of a hydroxyapatite-toothpaste in adults, Paszyńska et al., 2023).
  • Reduction of tooth sensitivity : By plugging the exposed dentin tubules, hydroxyapatite effectively reduces tooth sensitivity without using aggressive 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 more natural dentistry!

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

Our fluoride-free formulas allow you to maintain oral health while reducing the risks associated with fluoride!

Discover our hydroxyapatite products:
-> Our remineralizing 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 make the switch to healthier dental protection? 

Christiane, Dentist and Co-founder of The Smilist