In the U.S., fluoride is considered the gold standard—despite known risks of thyroid disruption, IQ reduction at high doses, and accumulation in the body.
Meanwhile, nano-hydroxyapatite—which doesn’t absorb into the bloodstream—has been used in Japan and Europe for decades.
And still, most Americans have never heard of it…
It’s called nano-hydroxyapatite.
And for a lot of people, the word “nano” is where the conversation stops. Or, maybe we lost you at “fluoride alternative.”
Which is too bad.
Because the science is incredibly exciting to me as a dentist of 40 years who, back in 1983, decided the potential benefit of fluoride was not worth the risk, and went on to raise my three daughters without a single drop of fluoride.
Multiple safety reviews—including one from Europe’s top independent toxicology panel—have found that nano-hydroxyapatite doesn’t absorb into the body, doesn’t damage DNA, and breaks down into the same minerals your teeth are made of.
Just this month, Europe’s top safety panel—the SCCS—updated its recommendation on nano-hydroxyapatite after years of review.
While the SCCS does not evaluate how well nano-HAP works, its updated review confirms the ingredient is safe for use at concentrations far higher than previously allowed—to the tune of nearly 3x in toothpaste and over 20x for mouthwash.
Who the heck is the SCCS, and why should their opinion matter? This isn’t industry-funded science—it’s independent, peer-reviewed, and publicly available. When the SCCS says something is safe, it means it’s passed one of the strictest safety bars in the world.
In the U.S., if there’s no data proving harm, it’s often assumed safe. Innocent until proven guilty.
In the EU, it’s the opposite: if safety isn’t proven, it’s assumed risky. That’s why their findings actually mean something to me.
This is also why I look to European agencies when it comes to safety of whitening materials. I wrote more about this in a previous newsletter.
So when the SCCS says nano-hydroxyapatite is safe, that’s after years of rigorous review, public scrutiny, and re-evaluation every time new data emerges.
That mindset protects people—I just wish U.S. regulators shared it. Their conservative, precautionary mindset puts public safety first in a way that should be the global norm. I can dream, can’t I?
Perhaps this is why the U.S. has banned 11 cosmetic ingredients and the EU has banned over 1,300. (Yes, it’s crazy that oral care is regulated as a cosmetic!)
The SCCS has reviewed nano-HAP since 2016. Their latest update reflects nearly a decade of ongoing data review—exactly how science should work.
This update confirms what we already knew: nano-hydroxyapatite helps reverse early cavities, ease sensitivity, and support your oral microbiome. And it’s safe for the rest of your body.
This is the toothpaste I use and co-formulated with nano-hydroxyapatite, along with a triple board certified pediatric dentist. I’ve watched this arrest my granddaughter’s cavities. I’ve seen it ease pain without adding to the chemical load our kids already carry more than enough of. And I’ve seen study after study showing that it performs just as well—if not better—than fluoride toothpaste.
Fluoride, by contrast, has been linked to thyroid disruption and lower IQ scores in high-exposure areas—especially concerning in young children. It works when applied topically (via toothpaste—NOT via ingestion via fluoridated water, by the way) BUT it builds up in the body over time. That’s where nano-HAP offers a smarter alternative—same benefit, fewer tradeoffs.
So how do we know nano-hydroxyapatite is safe? Here’s what the SCCS review confirmed. Let’s break down exactly what the new report says—point by point.
- No genotoxicity: it doesn’t damage DNA.
- No inflammation or irritation: even when applied directly to oral tissue.
- Negligible absorption: the particles don’t enter the bloodstream.
- No nano-specific risk when swallowed: they dissolve into calcium and phosphate in the stomach (exactly what I’ve been saying for years).
And no, the SCCS found no indication that these particles cross the blood-brain barrier (there’s some misinformation floating around Instagram that says this). I always say: yes, things can get absorbed through the oral mucosa—but that’s exactly why this review matters.
And when nano-hydroxyapatite dissolves in the stomach, it turns into calcium and phosphate—minerals your body already uses to build bone, regulate cells, and maintain healthy blood chemistry. Your body knows exactly what to do with them.
Nano-silver, on the other hand, has been shown to persist in tissues and may interfere with gut or mitochondrial function. Some studies suggest bioaccumulation risks—especially with frequent exposure. That’s why I don’t recommend nano-silver in toothpaste. It’s not biomimetic, and the risks outweigh the benefits. I know other dentists will disagree with me on this.
This aligns with what many of us in functional dentistry have been advocating for years: that biomimetic materials like nano-HAP are not only effective, but incredibly safe when used properly.
The SCCS isn’t just confident. They’re doubling down.
In a world where so many products make bold claims but come with questionable ingredients, it’s deeply reassuring to have one that checks both boxes: effective and safe for the whole body.
This is functional dentistry at its best: not being so focused on the teeth that we neglect systemic health as well.
And the fact that Europe’s most rigorous safety panel just backed it again? That’s something to celebrate.
-Dr. B
🧠 Sponsored by Masszymes – a supplement I personally take
I talk a lot about optimizing for health—whether it’s your oral microbiome or your digestion. One product that’s been a staple in my own routine for years is Masszymes.
Why it works: It’s a high-potency enzyme blend that helps your body digest protein more efficiently—especially after big meals, during travel, or when stress throws digestion off track.
The result? Better nutrient absorption, less bloating, and more energy from the food you’re already eating. 👉 Here’s how I use Masszymes—and why I recommend it →Here’s how I use Masszymes—and why I recommend it →
P.S. If you’ve made it this far—thank you.
I know your inbox is crowded, and the fact that you choose to spend time with me here means a lot. I write these emails because I believe we need more root-cause thinking in dentistry—and because you deserve care that looks at the whole picture, not just the symptoms.
Also: the best way to take care of your oral health is to see your dentist. Have these conversations with them. Ask questions. Share what you’re learning.
And if that’s not landing—or if you don’t feel your dentist is open to the functional approach—check out my Functional Dentist Directory. It’s there to help you find someone who’s curious, collaborative, and committed to treating root causes.