noun
- A naturally occurring mineral form of calcium phosphate that is the main inorganic component of bone and tooth enamel.
Usage: technical; chemistry/biology
Examples
- Hydroxyapatite makes up about 70% of the mineral content in human bones.
- Dentists use hydroxyapatite in some toothpastes to strengthen tooth enamel.
- The crystal structure of hydroxyapatite is similar to that found in natural bone.
- Researchers are developing synthetic hydroxyapatite for bone grafting procedures.
- Hydroxyapatite coatings are applied to dental implants to promote bone integration.