Hydroxyapatite in tooth structure (HAP)

Hydroxyapatite is a naturally occurring mineral form of calcium apatite with the formula Ca₁₀(PO₄)₆(OH)₂ and constitutes the primary inorganic component of human tooth enamel and dentin, giving them hardness and resistance to mechanical and chemical attack[1][2][5]. In teeth, hydroxyapatite crystals are densely packed in enamel and less densely in dentin, providing structural support and protecting against demineralization caused by dietary acids and bacterial metabolism[2][6]. Loss of hydroxyapatite leads to dental caries and enamel erosion; conversely, topical or nano-hydroxyapatite can remineralize early enamel lesions by redepositing calcium and phosphate ions onto demineralized tooth surfaces[2][7][3]. In dental products, hydroxyapatite is used to reduce sensitivity, repair small defects, and strengthen the enamel by mimicking the tooth's natural mineral phase[1][4].

Other names

HydroxyapatiteCalcium hydroxyapatiteBiological apatiteTooth hydroxyapatiteEnamel hydroxyapatite

Remineralization (by supplying calcium and phosphate ions to repair enamel) - Dentin tubule occlusion (reduces sensitivity by blocking exposed nerve tubules)