The top layer of your tooth, called the enamel, is designed to protect your teeth from acids and sugars in food and drink. But when it is not strong enough, it can erode away.
The most common symptom of enamel erosion is tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. Other symptoms are white spots on the teeth, brown spots on the teeth or a change in shape of the tooth. Unfortunately, at-home teeth whitening kits often contain peroxide - which is a chemical that can strip this protective enamel from your teeth.
Peroxide based tooth whitening is a popular option for people who want whiter teeth. However, it has its drawbacks. The peroxide in the mixture can cause sensitivity in teeth and gums, erosion of enamel, and long-term health effects. It also affects the mouth microbiome and cavities.
In three new studies, researchers found that hydrogen peroxide, the active ingredient in over-the-counter whitening strips, can damage the protein-rich dentin tissue found beneath the tooth's protective enamel.
So... what's the alternative?
Nanohydroxapatite (nHAp) is a form of calcium phosphate that is used to create stronger teeth. It has been proven to rebuild enamel, make teeth whiter, and reduce sensitivity. It does this by strengthening the tooth’s structure and increasing its resistance to acid erosion.
nHAp is essentially the lab cousin of bone, a form of calcium crystal. It works by remineralising—it replaces missing sections of minerals that have dissolved out of enamel or bone by bonding directly to the bone or tooth surfaces. It can also stimulate new bone growth by acting on the cells that cause new bone to grow.
Research has shown that Nanohydroxapatite can also be used to rebuild bones and tissue in other parts of the body. It can also help with saliva production which could be beneficial for people who have dry mouth or are suffering from Sjögren’s Syndrome.
nHAp is the hero ingredient in our nHAp Whitening Mouthwash Drops - designed to whiten your teeth in just 60 seconds a day, whilst also rebuilding and remineralising the tooth enamel!
