What is hydroxyapatite?

hydroxyapatite is a naturally occurring mineral that is similar to the composition to the mineral element in human bones. The enamel on the teeth is largely composed of the mold of this mineral. In nature, it may seem that hydroxyapatite has brown, yellow or green color. It is usually white in its powder.

This mineral is often used for medical implants. It is bioactive, which means that it can integrate into bone structures and promote growth without disintegration or dissolution in the human body. Initially, the mineral was mostly used for dental implants. Although still used for this purpose, it is also used for other purposes. Plasma spraying is generally a method used to perform this task. Implants should be coated to deceive the body; If this was not done and the body would identify the implant as a foreign object and work on its isolation instead of its integration.

Hydroxyapatit can also be used in cases where bone cavities or defects. This process behindPins pills, blocks or beads of mineral placed in or on the affected area of ​​the bone. Because it is bioactive, it stimulates bones to grow and fix the problem. This process can be an alternative to bone grafts. Usually this results in healing time, which are shorter than they would be if hydroxyapatite were not used.

Medical use of hydroxyapatite is considered to be the work of Professor Per-Invar Gatemark. In 1952 he conducted an experiment that included the use of a titanium implant in the rabbit bone. When the professor left to remove the implant, he allegedly found that the implant integrated with the bone so thoroughly that it cannot be removed. This has caused interest in its use for human medical purposes.

The product known as microcrystalline hydroxyapatite (MH) is sometimes sold for consumers as a supplement for bone construction. It is often advertised as an excellent absorption to calcium. There are studies thatRé showed positive results. Despite this, consumers are generally recommended that they avoid supplements, since MH is generally considered to be insufficiently tested.

Hydroxyapatit can also cause health problems. Sometimes molecules clump together and form crystals. They can form in or around the joints and cause swelling of the joints, tendons or bindings. The treatment of this condition may include the application of cold compression, the use of drugs for inflammation and injection of the cortisone type.