Nutrition
Acidic foods and drinks are consumed more frequently these days. These changes in eating and drinking habits attack tooth enamel, thereby accelerating its breakdown.
Hydroxyapatite is the main component of our tooth enamel. It protects the teeth from irritants and damage. Over time, however, this tooth mineral wears away.
By using artificial enamel – also known as biomimetic hydroxyapatite – in Bioniq dental care products, daily use can help support dental health and repair damaged enamel.
Definition : What is hydroxyapatite?
Hydroxyapatite is a mineral from the calcium phosphate group and is known for its very high degree of hardness. It is a component of our bones and teeth. While bones consist of around 60% hydroxyapatite, the hydroxyapatite content in our teeth is much higher.
Inside the tooth, the inner dentine is made up of around 70% of this mineral. The outer part, the tooth enamel, consists of around 97% hydroxyapatite, making it the hardest substance in our body. Hydroxyapatite provides strength and stability for our body and our teeth.
However, it is primarily the hydroxyapatite contained in tooth enamel that naturally wears away over time and cannot be reproduced by the body.
Advantages : 3 key benefits of hydroxyapatite in dental care
The outermost layer of the tooth, the enamel, consists of 97% hydroxyapatite. This protects the underlying layers. Our bodies cannot repair worn-down enamel on their own. Using the principles of bionics, scientists have succeeded in creating artificial enamel that is very similar to human enamel.
Repairs tooth enamel
Micro-fine active ingredient repairs defects and forms a protective layer on the tooth with every brush, helping protect against acid attacks.
Smoother teeth with daily use.
Whiter teeth
Hydroxyapatite adheres to the tooth, making it appear brighter. New stains find it difficult to adhere to the smooth tooth surface.
Reduces tooth sensitivity
Targeted repair and restoration of the tooth enamel protect the sensitive tooth necks. Exposed dentinal tubules are sealed, helping to reduce tooth sensitivity. Helps reduce sensitivity to hot and cold food.
Enjoy hot and cold foods with greater comfort!
Scientifically proven
The active ingredient has been studied in just under 300 trials. The scientific findings clearly show that:
Hydroxyapatite helps keep your teeth and gums healthy!
Bionics : Hydroxyapatite from the field of bionics
Fortunately, thanks to advances and innovations in dental technology, tooth enamel can now be replicated. This so-called artificial tooth enamel is bionic or biomimetic hydroxyapatite and is based on the principles of bionics.
The term ‘bionics’ describes the combination of biology and technology. It involves applying a natural phenomenon to a technical system. This concept has already been successfully applied to many everyday objects:
The camera lens is modelled on the human eye
The water- and dirt-repellent lotus effect
Helicopters are inspired by the flight of dragonflies
These are just a few of the many examples from the field of bionics. Nature is a popular model because we know it works. Some of these systems have stood the test of time over thousands of years and have prevailed through evolution. Our dental care products containing hydroxyapatite are another successful example!
Protective function: Why is tooth enamel important?
Tooth enamel has to withstand a lot: eating, drinking, chewing and other external factors, such as teeth grinding, put it under daily strain.
The high resistance of tooth enamel protects the underlying layers of the tooth from wear and tear. However, it is itself gradually worn down by constant stress. Calcium and phosphate in saliva can at least partially protect and remineralise the tooth enamel.
If the enamel is damaged, it becomes rough and porous. Bacteria can attach more easily and the risk of dental diseases, which in the worst case can lead to tooth loss, increases. At the same time, this wear makes the teeth appear more yellow. It also protects the tooth from demineralisation caused by acids that are produced after eating as a breakdown product of sugar.
Enamel wear: How does tooth enamel wear away?
Tooth enamel is naturally subject to wear and tear and gradually wears down over time, for example through chewing food. However, this is a very slow process. On the other hand, there are also additional factors that can encourage tooth enamel loss and therefore contribute to premature wear:
Toothbrushing technique
Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with stiff bristles can damage the enamel and, over time, contribute to its wear and tear.
Plaque
Plaque is a build-up of bacteria and food debris on the teeth. If it is not removed regularly, acids are produced which attack and demineralise the tooth enamel.
Teeth grinding
Teeth grinding, which usually occurs at night and is unconscious, subjects the tooth enamel to intense pressure and friction, causing the tooth structure to wear away gradually.
Enamel protection : Protect your tooth enamel with toothpaste
Unlike hair and fingernails, which grow back throughout a person’s lifetime, tooth enamel does not regenerate on its own. Numerous studies confirm, however, that the remaining enamel is effectively strengthened by dental care products containing biomimetic hydroxyapatite — also known as artificial tooth enamel — and that micro-fine defects are repaired.
Hydroxyapatite is produced in the laboratory and has properties similar to those of the basic building blocks of natural tooth enamel. Because it closely matches the structure of natural tooth enamel, the artificial tooth enamel (hydroxyapatite) bonds with the tooth surface. The teeth immediately feel smoother.
The microcrystalline structure of hydroxyapatite adheres directly to the surface of the enamel whilst brushing. This allows even the tiniest cracks and porous areas in the enamel to be repaired.
By using Bioniq® dental care products regularly:
- the teeth feel smoother, as fewer bacteria can settle on the tooth surface
- the teeth look brighter
- the build-up of plaque is reduced and overall oral health supported
- the teeth are less sensitive to cold, hot, sweet or sour foods and drinks
Toothpaste for tooth enamel : Bioniq products featuring artificial tooth enamel
Knowledge : Other topics
Building up tooth enamel – how to protect your teeth
Verified by Dr. Joachim Enax and Karoline Bauch
Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body – but it wears away over time. Find out what causes tooth enamel to break down, why it doesn’t regenerate on its own, and how the right toothpaste can repair minor defects.
Sensitive teeth – causes and what really helps
Verified by Dr. Joachim Enax and Karoline Bauch
Hot coffee, cold ice cream, sour apples – and suddenly that sharp pain. Find out why teeth are sensitive, what causes it, and what you can do to specifically reduce this sensitivity.
Bleeding gums – what causes it?
Verified by Dr. Joachim Enax and Karoline Bauch
Healthy gums do not bleed. Find out what causes bleeding gums, when you should see a dentist, and how you can prevent it with the right care.
Dr. Joachim Enax
Senior Scientist Oral Care
Dr. Joachim Enax is an expert in biomimetic oral care and oral health. As a PhD chemist, he is an experienced scientist in the research and development of innovative active ingredients for oral care and in promoting dental health. He is the author of numerous scientific publications in the field of teeth and oral care.
Scientifically reviewed
Karoline Bauch
Corporate Communications Officer
Karoline Bauch is an expert in science communication specialising in the Oral Care sector and acts as the editorial contact for all matters relating to dentistry, oral health and prevention.
Editorially reviewed