Ask the Dentist with Dr. Mark Burhenne

Episode #35: Does Size Matter?

Nov 9, 2021

29:42

When NASA noticed astronauts were losing essential minerals in space, they started prescribing hydroxyapatite supplementation. A Japanese company picked up on this, and in the 1970s released a commercial toothpaste containing hydroxyapatite. Recently, a toothpaste brand in the USA has also jumped on the bandwagon, and today Dr. B answers two questions about why this is a great prospect! Tune in to hear how hydroxyapatite works on teeth (and bones), why it’s better than fluoride, and where you can find it. Dr. B breaks down complicated chemistry into a simple explanation that makes the benefits of hydroxyapatite clear. From whether nano- or micro-particles are better, to how the state of the mouth affects its efficacy, you don’t want to miss out on this educational episode! Join us today to get the details on two of Dr. B's favorite studies, why you shouldn't be concerned about absorbing hydroxyapatite, and so much more!

Key Points From This Episode:

An introduction to today’s questions: “What’s the natural size and shape of hydroxyapatite in our saliva, would having the most biomimetic size and shape in toothpaste make it more effective?”
What biomimetic substances are, and why Dr. B supports them
How calcium is a building block of the body
The functions of essential nutrients like hydroxyapatite
What the difference is between nano and micro-sized particles
Why both nano and micro-sized hydroxyapatite particles are safe for use: how they get broken down in the body
The history of calcium-phosphate based materials in human health and modern medicine
How hydroxyapatite was introduced into toothpaste: from NASA to Sangi
The difference between fluoride and hydroxyapatite in enamel repair
Why hydroxyapatite nanoparticles are better than microparticles in toothpaste
Two of Dr. B’s favorite studies on hydroxyapatite in human health