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National Hydroxyapatite Day – May 29, 2024

National Hydroxyapatite Day is a holiday celebrated annually on May 29. The goal of this day is to bring awareness to the uses of the substance in the dental industry and spread the word of innovation in science all across the country.

History of National Hydroxyapatite Day

Hydroxyapatite is a calcium apatite mineral that occurs naturally. In the hexagonal crystal system, it crystallizes. The powder of hydroxyapatite is white. However, naturally occurring apatites can exhibit brown, yellow, or green colors. Bone mineral, a modified form of hydroxyapatite, accounts for up to 50% of the volume and 70% of the weight of human bone. Carbonated calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite is the main mineral that makes up tooth enamel and dentin. Small calcifications, the pineal gland, and other structures all contain hydroxyapatite crystals.

As of 2019, hydroxyapatite (or its synthetically generated form, nano-hydroxyapatite) is not widely used. According to certain research, it can help with dentine hypersensitivity, sensitivity following teeth bleaching operations, and caries prevention. Bleaching agents for teeth create reactive oxygen species, breaking the enamel. To avoid this, add nano-hydroxyapatite to the bleaching solution to limit the bleaching agent’s impact by plugging pores inside the enamel. After the bleaching procedure, this minimizes sensitivity.

Nano-hydroxyapatite has a remineralizing effect on teeth and can be utilized to protect them from caries. Nano-hydroxyapatite particles can infiltrate pores on the tooth surface to form a protective layer in the case of an acid attack by cariogenic bacteria. Furthermore, nano-hydroxyapatite may be able to repair damage caused by caries by directly replacing damaged surface minerals or acting as a binding agent for lost ions. Nano-hydroxyapatite has the potential to be used for tissue engineering and repair in the future.

National Hydroxyapatite Day timeline

7000 B.C.
Dentistry Starts

Evidence of ancient dentistry emerges.

1700s A.D.
Major Development

The dentistry industry begins major developments.

1763
Teeth Transplant

Surgeon John Hunter begins to theorize teeth transplants.

1800s
Regulations

Major regulations are made in governments around the world regarding dentistry practices.

National Hydroxyapatite Day FAQs

Is hydroxyapatite good for osteoporosis?

Studies have shown that hydroxyapatite can be a good substance to use for treating osteoporosis in women. It has also shown great results in preventing it.

What does hydroxyapatite do to the body?

Hydroxyapatite is the mineral that makes up bone and the matrix of teeth. It is responsible for the stiffness of bones and teeth.

What is the source of hydroxyapatite?

Natural hydroxyapatite is often derived from biological sources or wastes like mammalian bone. It can also be extracted from plants and marine sources.

How to Observe National Hydroxyapatite Day

  1. Brush your teeth

    Grab your toothbrush and brush your teeth. This is the best day to make sure to care for your teeth. Scientists recommend that you spend at least two minutes brushing to get your teeth squeaky clean.

  2. Schedule a dentist’s appointment

    How long has it been since you last visited your dentist? This is your sign to call their office and schedule an appointment.

  3. Share a photo

    If you’ve already brushed your teeth and visited your dentist, then show us those pearly whites on social media. Make sure you write about National Hydroxyapatite Day in the description.

5 Fun Facts About Teeth You’ll Love

  1. They are all yours

    Did you know that your set of teeth is just as unique as your fingerprints are?

  2. Lots of brushing

    An average person brushes their teeth twice a day, which means that, on average, you’ll spend almost 40 whole days of your lifetime brushing your teeth.

  3. Sticks and stones won’t break your teeth

    Teeth are stronger than bones and can crush almost anything without breaking.

  4. Strong bite

    A human’s bite is almost as strong as that of a pit bull and can reach up to 200 lbs.

  5. Not big fans of dentists

    80% of all patients would rather not be in their dentist appointment at all.

Why National Hydroxyapatite Day is Important

  1. It’s all about health

    Promoting hydroxyapatite is also about promoting health. This substance is so important for the treatment and prevention of many bone-related complications.

  2. It gives science the spotlight

    How cool is science? During this day we get to celebrate all science has done for us and how much it has improved our lives.

  3. It brings innovation

    Being innovative and creating new solutions for everyday problems is a must. This day celebrates that!

National Hydroxyapatite Day dates

YearDateDay
2024May 29Wednesday
2025May 29Thursday
2026May 29Friday
2027May 29Saturday
2028May 29Monday

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