Remineralizing Toothpaste: Uses, Benefits & Best Products

What is Remineralizing Toothpaste?

Our teeth are composed of several layers of dental tissue. The enamel is the hardest and outermost layer. It protects a softer inner layer known as dentin.

Acids can cause tooth enamel to demineralize or lose some of its minerals, exposing more sensitive layers.

A remineralizing toothpaste promotes the natural repair of existing tooth enamel. Unlike regular toothpaste, it redeposits minerals into your teeth through a process called remineralization.

Benefits of Remineralizing Toothpaste

Remineralization makes teeth stronger by replacing lost minerals. It restores your enamel and dentin while reversing the effects of demineralization.¹

A remineralizing toothpaste also protects your teeth against chemical damage and prevents further demineralization. This all depends on the ingredients.

Other benefits of remineralized toothpastes include:

• Better dental health
• Reduced tooth sensitivity
• Prevention of dental caries

Research shows that remineralization encourages demineralized dental tissue to grow back to its original size.²

What are the Most Effective Remineralizing Toothpastes?

Dental experts usually recommend toothpastes containing calcium phosphate and fluoride.¹ These minerals play a key role in remineralization.

• Calcium phosphate — forms into hydroxyapatite. Hydroxyapatite (HAP) immediately binds with teeth and repairs tooth enamel and dentin.
• Fluoride — forms into fluorapatite. It remineralizes teeth and speeds up HAP remineralization.

Remineralizing toothpastes may contain different variations of these ingredients. Some examples are stannous fluoride, calcium carbonate, and nanohydroxyapatite (nHa).

Both nHa and fluoride have their strong points.

According to Dr. Katrina Zhao at Midas Dental, there are pros and cons to both nHA and fluoride toothpaste. nHA toothpaste is more effective in preventing cavities and has a more pleasant taste than fluoride toothpaste.

However, fluoride toothpaste is more effective in remineralizing teeth and protecting them from decay. Fluoride is also more likely to cause staining of the teeth than nHA.

Which is Better: Hydroxyapatite or Fluoride (Fluorapatite)?

Fluoride has several advantages over hydroxyapatite, such as:

• Inhibits acid-producing bacteria
• Creates a more acid-resistant layer than HAP
• Decreases the solubility of teeth

Fluoride does not naturally occur in the body, unlike HAP which makes up 95% of tooth enamel and 70% of dentin.² Fluoride is also associated with some health risks.

Studies show that fluoride can be toxic to the kidneys and nervous system. It can cause thyroid, bone, and reproductive health problems when ingested.³

5 Best Remineralizing Toothpastes 

Boka Ela Mint

Best Natural Toothpaste for Remineralization

Buy on Boka

Code NewMouth for 15% off

• Cost — starts at $10 for Travel Pack; Get 15% off with Code NewMouth
• Flavors — Boka Ela Mint, Coco Ginger, and Lemon Lavender

Why Boka Ela Mint Toothpaste is Our Top Pick

1. Most affordable non-fluoridated remineralizing toothpaste

You can buy a 4 oz tube of Boka toothpaste for $12 or two travel-sized 1.3 oz tubes for $10 with one-time payment. 

Boka toothpastes are cheaper if you purchase them in packs of 2’s or 3’s. If you opt for a monthly subscription, you get a 20% discount plus free shipping.

2. Contains ingredients that are better than homemade toothpaste

Boka’s toothpastes contain natural ingredients that are 100% biocompatible and scientifically proven to work. Its main ingredient is nanohydroxyapatite (NHAP), a nano-sized form of HAP.

NHAP is not found in any homemade remineralizing toothpaste. It remineralizes teeth and prevents enamel erosion by binding with tooth enamel.¹

3. It safely and naturally whitens teeth

Boka’s remineralizing toothpaste contains sodium bicarbonate, a natural ingredient that can whiten teeth. It is basically baking soda, except Boka does not feel abrasive.

4. Boka’s natural toothpastes are sugar-free (and they taste great)

Boka uses natural ingredients such as lemon and peppermint essential oil for flavoring. Instead of artificial sugars, they use natural sweeteners like xylitol.

This gives you mildly flavorful toothpastes that aren’t too minty.

5. It can protect against cavities

Xylitol inhibits mouth bacteria from producing acids and polysaccharides. It gives Boka toothpaste the ability to prevent plaque, dental caries, and tooth decay.¹

Boka Toothpaste Pros

• Most affordable natural toothpaste
• Remineralizes and whitens teeth
• Protects sensitive teeth and prevents tooth decay
• Three flavor options: Ela Mint, Coco Ginger, and Lemon Lavender
• Vegan, gluten-free, and paraben-free organic toothpaste
• Does not contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and artificial colors
• Toothpaste comes in a BPA-free tube
• Zero-waste packaging (does not come in a box)
• Ships to U.S., Canada, and select countries worldwide

Boka Toothpaste Cons

• NHAP is not as widely studied as HAP
• Screw-style lid is not as convenient to use as a flip lid
• Sometimes runs out of stock
• Free shipping is only available for subscribers or orders over $25
• Not approved by the American Dental Association (ADA)
• May contain allergens. Products are made in shared facilities where peanuts, eggs, dairy, sunflower, and other tree nuts are processed.
• Not as eco-friendly as Elims Reflection Toothpaste

Elims Reflection

Most Sustainable Remineralizing Toothpaste

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• Cost: Starts at $14 for 4 oz.
• Flavors: Elims Lavender Vanilla Mint and Pineapple Orange Mint

Why Choose Elims Reflection Toothpaste

Elims is a non-fluoridated toothpaste with the same benefits as Boka. It has NHAP as an active ingredient, xylitol as a sweetener, and sodium bicarbonate as a teeth whitener.

It also contains natural ingredients and flavors such as peppermint oil and other essential oils. Elims toothpaste is the “greener” option.

While Boka comes in a plastic BPA-free tube, Elims uses a 100% recyclable tube made of sustainably grown sugarcane. It has a box, which adds waste, but it’s made of recycled paper pulp that’s also recyclable.

Elims Reflection toothpaste is reasonably priced. You can buy one 4 oz. tube for $14 and two for $26. Subscribers also get 10% off plus free shipping.

Elims Reflection Toothpaste Pros

• Reasonably priced alternative to fluoride toothpaste
• Remineralizes tooth enamel using NHAP and calcium carbonate
• Fights tooth sensitivity and decay
• Whitens teeth with a combination of baking soda and coconut oil
• Vegan, gluten-free, and paraben-free
• Free from SLS and artificial colors
• Has a flip-top cap, which makes it easier to open than Boka
• ASTM-certified product (low carbon emissions)

Elims Reflection Toothpaste Cons

• Despite different flavors, Elims toothpastes have a strong mint taste
• Does not ship outside the U.S.
• No information on possible allergens
• Lacks American Dental Association (ADA) approval

Hismile PAP+ Toothpaste

Best All-In-One Remineralizing Paste

Buy on Hismile

• Cost — starts at $45 for 4 oz.
• Flavors — none

Why Choose Hismile Teeth Whitening Toothpaste

Hismile PAP+ is the only non-fluoridated toothpaste we picked with three active ingredients: phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid (PAP), hydroxyapatite (HAP), and potassium citrate. This means it provides all their benefits in equal strengths.

PAP is a peroxide-free bleach that whitens teeth without causing gum irritation or sensitivity.⁴ It is safer than teeth whitening products that use hydrogen peroxide.

HAP is superior to NHAP for remineralization. It also gets extra help from arginine, a compound that breaks down into calcium carbonate and remineralizes teeth.

Lastly, it contains potassium citrate to reduce tooth sensitivity.⁵

Hismile Teeth Whitening Toothpaste Pros

• Sugar-free and non-fluoridated toothpaste
• Non-peroxide teeth whitener (does not irritate teeth or gums)
• Visibly whitens teeth after first use
• Prevents tooth sensitivity
• Contains HAP instead of NHAP for remineralization
• Usable with Hismile LED device for faster teeth whitening

Hismile Teeth Whitening Toothpaste Cons

• Most expensive remineralizing toothpaste
• No flavor options
• Has a distinct taste that needs getting used to
• PAP is still not widely studied
• No American Dental Association (ADA) approval

3M Clinpro 5000

Best Prescription Fluoride Toothpaste

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• Cost — varies; usually starts at $14 per 4 oz.
• Flavors — vanilla mint

Why Choose 3M Clinpro 5000 Toothpaste

3M Clinpro 5000 is a good choice if you prefer a fluoride toothpaste with the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. Clinpro 5000 is a prescription-strength dental health toothpaste that fights cavities.

Its two active ingredients are fluoride and tricalcium phosphate. Studies show that using them together provides better remineralization than fluoride alone.¹ 3M Clinpro 5000 is one of the few remineralizing toothpastes that are scientifically proven to work.⁶

3M Clinpro 5000 Toothpaste Pros

• Affordably priced for a prescription toothpaste
• Contains prescription-strength fluoride (5,000 ppm)
• Vegan and gluten-free
• Does not contain lactose, sucrose, or azo dyes
• Approved by the American Dental Association (ADA)
• Backed by scientific studies

3M Clinpro 5000 Toothpaste Cons

• You have to see a dentist for a prescription, which adds to the total cost
• Requires a prescription from a dental professional
• Contains sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which causes canker sores in some people
• Must be used carefully (cannot be swallowed or used more than once a day)
• Only available in one flavor

Sensodyne Pronamel

Best Prescription Fluoride Toothpaste

Buy on Amazon

• Cost — varies; usually starts at $6 for 4 oz.
• Flavors — peppermint, mint, and clean mint

Why choose Sensodyne Pronamel Toothpaste

Sensodyne Pronamel is an entire line of toothpastes that remineralize teeth. You can choose from eight variants:

• Multi-Action — whitens teeth, freshens breath, and promotes oral health
• Daily Protection — prevents cavities and freshens breath
• Fresh Breath — gives you extra-fresh breath
• Intensive Repair Whitening — repairs enamel erosion and whitens teeth
• Intensive Enamel Repair — reverses and protects against enamel damage
• Strong & Bright — strengthens teeth and removes teeth stains
• Mineral Boost — promotes tooth enamel remineralization
• Gentle Whitening — remineralizes and whitens teeth

While some options provide more benefits than others, each Pronamel toothpaste can remineralize teeth. So if you want the best remineralizing toothpaste that’s affordable, contains fluoride, and has American Dental Association (ADA) approval, Sensodyne Pronamel is your go-to.

Sensodyne Pronamel Toothpaste Pros

• Most affordable remineralizing fluoride toothpaste
• Can be purchased online and over-the-counter
• Plenty of options to choose from
• Has ADA Seal of Acceptance

Sensodyne Pronamel Toothpaste Cons

• Only has minty flavors
• Non-vegan toothpaste

Why These Products? 

Everyone has different opinions on what they think is the best remineralizing toothpaste. But knowing each individual toothpaste’s benefits can help you choose the best option for your needs.

We narrowed down our list based on the following criteria:

1. Brand reputation — is the toothpaste made by a trusted manufacturer?
2. Flavor and taste — what are the flavor options and how do they taste?
3. Active ingredients — are the main ingredients effective?
4. Other benefits — what else can the remineralizing toothpaste do?
5. Affordability — how much does it cost?
6. Customer reviews  — what do people say about the brand’s products?
7. Dietary considerations — is the toothpaste vegan? Gluten-free? SLS-free? Does it use natural ingredients that work?

Tips for Choosing the Right Remineralizing Toothpaste

First, you have to decide whether you want fluoridated or non-fluoridated toothpaste. 

Remember that the American Dental Association (ADA) only approves toothpastes that have fluoride as a main ingredient.

Next, talk to your dentist about your dental health. If you have mild enamel erosion, they might recommend toothpastes that you can purchase online or over the counter.

Your dentist might prescribe a prescription toothpaste in more severe cases. If there are visible cavities and enamel damage (like broken teeth), you may even need dental fillings.

Check the toothpaste for ingredients that can trigger allergies and food sensitivities. Keep in mind that natural products are not always the better choice. They might contain fruits and essential oils that you may react to.

Some of these toothpaste ingredients, like cleaned powdered egg shells (calcium powder), coconut oil, and clove essential oil have the potential to remineralize teeth.^7,8,9 But the effectiveness of ingredients like bentonite clay is not yet proven.

Note: It’s not recommended to make toothpaste using homemade recipes. Homemade toothpaste only contains trace minerals. In small amounts, these ingredients may not produce enough remineralizing effects.