Boka vs. RiseWell (Tested & Compared)

Our team tried both of these toothpastes firsthand, and we’re comparing them on ingredients, safety, and cost.

This article contains affiliate links, upon purchase I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Comparison Overview

Boka and RiseWell aim to be natural alternatives to conventional fluoride-based toothpastes. Boka and RiseWell both claim to be free of toxins.

Both brands are vegan, gluten free, and cruelty free.

They are both free from parabens, sulfates, fluoride, peroxide, and artificial flavors.

Hydroxyapatite

Effectiveness: Hydroxyapatite toothpaste has been used in Japan since 1993 and is approved in Canada and Europe. In clinical trials, hydroxyapatite and fluoride have provided comparable protection against cavities (see here and here), says Dr. Mudgal, Toxicologist.

Safety: Hydroxyapatite has a well-established safety record, as its composition mimics natural enamel. Clinical research confirms it does not cause allergic reactions or toxicity, explains Dr. Mudgal (Source). Its long-standing use in medical applications, such as bone grafts, further supports its biocompatibility. Unlike fluoride, it poses no risks if accidentally ingested, making it particularly beneficial for children who may swallow toothpaste, says Dr. Mudgal (Source).

Nano or Non-Nano? Which is Safer and More Effective: Nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HAp), with its smaller particle size, can penetrate deeper into enamel defects, offering enhanced remineralization. Regulatory bodies, like the European Commission’s SCCS, have approved nano-HAp in toothpaste at concentrations up to 10%, provided the particles are not in harmful shapes like needles (Source). While short-term studies are promising, ongoing research is needed to confirm its long-term safety and systemic absorption risks.

But Isn’t Nano Dangerous? In terms of safety, the micro form is more thoroughly understood, while nano-HAp’s long-term impact is still being studied. Both forms of hydroxyapatite are currently considered safe alternatives to fluoride, says Dr. Mudgal (Source).

I asked Dr. Mudgal to explain this further by conparing nano-titatnium dioxide to hydroxyapatite.

She says: “Nano-titanium dioxide (TiO₂) can be a concern because it might produce harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage cells. It can also accumulate in the body if inhaled or swallowed in large amounts. On the other hand, nano-hydroxyapatite (HAp) is very similar to the natural minerals in our bones and teeth, making it safe and compatible with the body. Unlike TiO₂, nano-HAp doesn’t cause oxidative stress.

Additionally, since it’s mainly used in toothpaste and mouth rinses, it isn’t absorbed much by the body, making it even safer to use.”

Comparison Overview

• Boka and RiseWell both offer clean, natural ingredients that omit the controversial components of conventional toothpaste, and replace fluoride with hydroxyapatite (HAp).
• Both companies are in the higher price-point for toothpaste, but both cost about the same at ~$12 – $13.
• Boka uses nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HAp), while RiseWell uses micro-hydroxyapatite (HAp), and only includes nano-hydroxyapatite in its PRO line.
• Boka offers a Whitening toothpaste. RiseWell offers a PRO line that contains higher amounts of HAp intended for intensive tooth repair and sensitivity relief. They do not have a dedicated “whitening” option.
• Both companies’ lines are vegan, gluten free, cruelty free, fluoride free, paraben free, sodium lauryl sulfate free.
• Boka offers a wider variety of flavors for adults and kids.
• RiseWell offers a flavorless option.

Comparison of Boka vs. RiseWell Toothpastes

	Boka	RiseWell
Main Active Ingredient	Nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HAp)	Non nano-HAp (nano-HAp in PRO line only)
Key features	Enamel repair, remineralization, whitening, sensitivity relief	Enamel repair, remineralization, whitening, sensitivity relief
Price	$13-14 / 4 oz. tube on their site, with sometimes better deals on Amazon for a set of three.	$12 / 4 oz on their site, or a little more on Amazon
Fluoride	No	No
Anti-cavity	n-HAp, xylitol	HAp, xylitol
Antimicrobial	Coconut oil (Whitening), peppermint and spearmint essential oils, menthol	Wild mint, peppermint, tea tree essential oils, menthol, stevia
Anti-inflammatory	Dimethyl sulfone, aloe	Aloe
Whitening	Hydrated silica, silica, n-HAp, sodium bicarbonate	Hydrated silica, HAp, calcium carbonate
Sensitivity Relief	n-HAp	HAp
Abrasives	Hydrated silica, silica, sodium bicarbonate	Hydrated silica, silica, calcium carbonate
Sweeteners	Sorbitol, xylitol, stevia	Sorbitol, xylitol, stevia, erythritol
Flavors	Ela Mint, Lemon Lavender, Coco Ginger, many additional flavors	Wild Mint, Cake Batter (kids), Flavorless option
Surfactants	Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate	Potassium cocoate

Boka’s Claims

Claims

Boka’s stated mission is “creating non-toxic, high-performing formulas you can feel good about using” (Boka website). 

Boka toothpastes use nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HAp) as a remineralizing and whitening agent which may be more effective at repairing enamel than micro-hydroxyapatite, and some claim increased whitening and desensitizing effects (see here and here).

Key Specs

• Silica and sodium bicarbonate clean and whiten teeth.
• Xylitol fights bacteria and aids in cavity prevention.
• Spearmint and peppermint oils reduce bacteria while freshening breath.
• Flavors are provided by essential oils and fruit extracts (except in the children’s line, which includes “natural flavors”)
• The entire lineup includes silica, n-HAp, and baking soda for whitening.
• Their dedicated whitening line adds extra baking soda and coconut oil to their formula, and advertises no peroxides, which can cause a burning sensation.
• They also offer Charcoal Yuzu Mint Whitening toothpaste that uses activated charcoal for enhanced whitening.
• Natural sweeteners sorbitol, xylitol, and stevia.

How much hydroxyapatite is in Boka toothpaste?

Boka dos not disclose the amount or percent of hydroxyapatite publicly. I reached out to them for more details, but they did not respond.

Firsthand Review of Boka

Standard Ela Mint Line

We enjoy the flavor of Boka’s Ela Mint.

The Ela Mint uses no artificial flavors or “natural flavors” (the Kid’s line includes “natural flavors”). The flavor comes primarily from peppermint, spearmint, and wintergreen oils. The Ela Mint also has anise, which balances out the cool menthol flavor in a way that we like.

The Ela Mint has a light texture and mouth-feel, it almost feels like you’re brushing with nothing. Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate provides moderate foaming action, and is a less controversial alternative to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate.

Whitening Line

The whitening toothpaste also has a light texture and mouth-feel like the Ela Mint.

The flavor was lighter than the Ela Mint, and not as satisfying.

The flavor is again from spearmint, wintergreen, and peppermint essential oils. Overall, the experience is pleasant, and not overpowering.

We tried the Whitening line for almost two weeks, and did not detect any improvement in whiteness, even though the evidence for the whitening power of n-HAp is strong – though can take more than two weeks (see studies here and here).

Kids’ Lines

The Orange Cream and Kids’ Strawberry Mango both contain “natural flavor” and “benzyl alcohol”, which are absent from the adult lines.

Cost

Boka’s Ela Mint is $13 for a 4-ounce tube ($24 for a two-pack) from the Boka site, and the Whitening toothpaste is $14 per tube.

The Boka site offers free shipping on orders over $35.

Amazon prices for the flagship product can beat the website if you order the three pack.

The Whitening cost is around the same as on the website.

Comparison of Boka’s Toothpastes

Feature	Ela Mint & Flagship Line	Whitening	Charcoal Yuzu Mint Whitening	Orange Cream
Active Ingredients	Hydrated silica, Silica, n-HAp, xylitol, sodium bicarbonate	Hydrated silica, silica, sodium bicarbonate, n-HAp, xylitol	Calcium carbonate, silica, xylitol, n-HAp, charcoal, sodium bicarbonate	Silica, n-HAp, xylitol, sodium bicarbonate
Natural whitening	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Fluoride	No	No	No	No
Artificial Flavors	No	No	No	No
Preservatives	Sodium benzoate	No	Sodium benzoate	Sodium benzoate
Peroxide	No	No	No	No
Key Benefits	Enamel repair, remineralization	Gentle whitening, enamel repair	Enhanced whitening, enamel repair	Enamel repair, remineralization

Boka’s Ingredients

Boka Toothpaste	Ingredients
Ela Mint	Water, Vegetable Glycerin, Hydrated Silica, Sorbitol Powder, Silica, Hydroxyapatite (Nano), Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Mentha Piperita Essential (Peppermint) Oil, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Oil, Illicium Verum (Star Anise) Oil, Gaultheria Procumberis (Wintergreen) Oil, Xylitol, Xanthan Gum, Stevia Rebaudiana Extract Powder, Methylsulfonylmethane, Aloe Barbadensis (aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Sodium Bicarbonate, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Extract, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Menthol, Elettaria Cardamomum Miniscula Seed (Cardamom), Potassium Chloride.
Whitening	Glycerin, Water, Hydrated Silica, Sorbitol, Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda), Hydroxyapatite (nano), Xanthan Gum, Xylitol, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Elettaria Cardamomum Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Extract, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Tea) Leaf Extract, Illicium Verum (Anise) Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Gaultheria Procumbens (Wintergreen) Leaf Oil, Mentha Spicata (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Stevia Rebaudiana Leaf Extract, Menthol, Dimethyl Sulfone, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate.
Orange Cream	Water, Glycerin, Hydrated Silica, Sorbitol, Silica, Nano Hydroxyapatite, Sodium Benzoate, Xanthan Gum, Xylitol, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Potassium Chloride, Stevia Rebaudiana Leaf/Stem Extract, Dimethyl Sulfone, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Bicarbonate, Medium Chain Triglycerides, Natural Flavor, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Persea Gratissima Fruit Extract, Triacetin, Benzyl Alcohol.

RiseWell’s Claims

Claims

RiseWell‘s mission is to provide “100% safe, natural [toothpaste] alternatives that clean and protect just as effectively” as traditional toothpastes, but are safe enough to eat.

They claim “naturally effective ingredients,” without fluoride, dyes, “harsh foaming agents like [sodium lauryl sulfate], artificial flavors or mysterious “natural flavors”.

Key Specs

• Micro-hydroxyapatite (HAp) is used throughout their line and they only add nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HAp) to their PRO line. (While Boka uses n-HAp throughout all toothpastes).
• So if you want to avoid nano minerals RiseWell is the one to go with.
• Silica and calcium carbonate clean teeth, and contribute to whitening.
• Xylitol prevents and repairs cavities and fights bacteria.
• Wild mint and peppermint oils reduce bacteria while freshening breath.
• Orange, lemon, and eucalyptus oils reduce inflammation, says the company.
• Includes tea tree, cinnamon, and thyme extracts for their antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. The Kids’ toothpaste leaves out the menthol and essential oils.
• RiseWell’s PRO line targets customers needing robust sensitivity care and remineralizing, and includes 5% n-HAp.
• For natural sweeteners, RiseWell uses stevia, sorbitol, xylitol, and erythritol.

How much hydroxyapatite is in RiseWell toothpaste?

According to RiseWell, the Original line of toothpastes contains 10% micro hydroxyapatite.

The RiseWell PRO line contains 10% micro hydroxyapatite and 5% nano hydroxyapatite.

Review of RiseWell

Flavor and Texture

We tried RiseWell’s flagship Mineral Toothpaste in Wild Mint and the Kids’ toothpaste in Cake Batter flavor.

Both toothpastes have a heavier and thicker mouthfeel than the Boka toothpastes, have a coarser texture than the light and smooth Boka lines, and don’t foam.

We had a generally positive experience after a few weeks of using RiseWell.

We love both flavors and spoke to one parent whose 6-year-old loves the Cake Batter.

Effectiveness

Hydroxyapatite-based toothpastes are gaining popularity in the market, and reviews are still coming in.

After several months of testing RiseWell’s Mineral toothpaste, we saw no reported difference in tooth repair or whitening. 

Our teeth were already “pretty bad off,” which may have made progress difficult to notice.

One fan of RiseWell we interviewed raves, “I had a long stretch of not going to the dentist, and when I went back I was relieved to hear I had no cavities and my teeth were in pretty good shape!” They’ve been using RiseWell for years, and added that “My teeth seem less sensitive when I use it.”

RiseWell offers fewer flavor options than Boka, but we like that RiseWell makes a flavorless toothpaste that leaves out the essential oils, plant extracts, and menthol, and has only 13 ingredients.

Cost

RiseWell’s Mineral toothpaste and Kid’s version are $12 for a 4-ounce tube on the RiseWell site, and the PRO versions cost $22 per tube.

The RiseWell site offers free shipping on orders over $40.

Amazon carries the Mineral Toothpaste (in Wild Mint and flavorless) and Kids toothpaste for slightly more per tube but with free shipping, and doesn’t carry the PRO line.

RiseWell’s Ingredients

RiseWell Toothpaste	Ingredients
Mineral Toothpaste	Silica, Sorbitol, Glycerin, Xylitol, Hydroxyapatite, Calcium Carbonate, Propanediol, Potassium Cocoate, Stevia Rebaudiana Extract, Mentha Arvensis (Wild Mint) Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Cinnamomum Cassia (Cinnamon) Bark Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil, Cellulose Gum, Sodium Gluconate, Menthol, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Extract, Erythritol, Xanthan Gum, Eucalyptus Globulus Extract, Illicium Verum (Anise) Extract.
Kids’ Cake Batter	Silica, Sorbitol, Glycerin, Xylitol, Hydroxyapatite, Calcium Carbonate, Propanediol, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Potassium Cocoate, Stevia Rebaudiana Extract, Erythritol, Cellulose Gum, Sodium Gluconate, Xanthan Gum.
PRO	Water, Sorbitol, Hydrated Silica, Glycerin, Xylitol, Hydroxyapatite, Calcium Carbonate, Propanediol, Nano-Hydroxyapatite, Potassium Cocoate, Stevia Rebaudiana Extract, Mentha Arvensis (Wild Mint) Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Cassia (Cinnamon) Bark Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil, Cellulose Gum, Sodium Gluconate, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Extract, Xanthan Gum, Erythritol.

Comparison of RiseWell’s Toothpastes

Feature	Original Mineral Toothpaste	Kids	PRO Line
Active Ingredients	Hydrated silica, Hydroxyapatite (HAp), silica, xylitol, calcium carbonate	Silica, HAp, xylitol, calcium carbonate	Hydrated silica, HAp (micro + nano), xylitol, calcium carbonate
Hydroxyapatite Content	10% HAp	HAp	10% HAp + 5% n-HAp
Flavors	Wild Mint	Cake Batter	Wild mint, Cake Batter (kids)
Natural whitening	Yes	Yes	Yes
Fluoride	No	No	No
Artificial Flavors	No	No	No
Preservatives	Sodium gluconate	Sodium gluconate	Sodium gluconate
Key Benefits	Enamel repair, remineralization, whitening	Enamel repair, remineralization, whitening	Enhanced enamel repair, remineralization, whitening
Target Users	Adults and Kids	Kids	Adults and Kids

Conclusion:

Key Differences:

• Both brands use Hydroxyapatite for remineralization, but RiseWell specifies non-nano Hydroxypatite particles (and some people like to avoid nano minerals), while Boka uses nano Hydroxyapatite, which may penetrate deeper into the tooth surface and be more effective.
• Both are fluoride free.
• Both contain xylitol for cavity prevention.
• RiseWell could be considered “more natural” since Potassium Cocoate is a natural soap, while Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate can be a synthetic surfactant. And in terms of preservatives, Sodium Gluconate in RiseWell may considered a more natural alternative compared to Boka’s synthetic Sodium Benzoate.
• RiseWell emphasizes antibacterial oils, while Boka includes ingredients that may enhance enamel strength (potassium chloride) and provide natural whitening (sodium bicarbonate). Though both contain whitening ingredients.
• RiseWell offers the only unflavored option.
• Both are similar in price.