Is Hydroxyapatite Safe to Swallow?

Hydroxyapatite is generally considered safe to swallow in the small amounts present in toothpaste and tooth powder, which is a big part of why it's so popular as a fluoride-free option for kids and anyone who doesn't love the idea of spitting out fluoride. It's the same mineral that naturally makes up tooth enamel, so it isn't a foreign chemical to the body.

That said, toothpaste of any kind isn't food — you should still spit it out rather than swallow it on purpose, and supervise young children so they use a small amount. The appeal of hydroxyapatite is mainly peace of mind: it's enamel's own mineral, with a gentle, recognizable profile. If you have specific concerns, your dentist is the right person to ask. More in our guide to hydroxyapatite vs. fluoride.

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