How can fluoride prevent dental caries

When fluoride is present in oral fluids i. Fluoride ions F — replace hydroxyl groups OH — in the formation of the apatite crystal lattice Figure 11B , resulting in a stronger, fluoridated tooth mineral fluorapatite. Fluorapatite is less soluble than hydroxyapatite, even under acidic conditions. Because fluorapatite is less soluble than hydroxyapatite, it is also more resistant to subsequent demineralization when acid challenged. Caries is generally considered to be a sub-surface phenomenon.

With fluoride treatment, a non-cavitated lesion can be remineralized with fluorapatite and have greater resistance to subsequent demineralization than hydroxyapatite. Even at very low concentrations, fluoride is effective as an anticaries agent.

All three of these fluoride sources provide the important F - ion, which both inhibits demineralization and promotes remineralization of damaged tooth mineral. In addition, SnF 2 is considered to have unique properties, as it provides efficacy against bacterial acids in addition to its fluoridating benefits.

You did not finish creating your certificate. Failure to complete ALL the steps will result in a loss of this test score, and you will not receive credit for this course. It works with saliva to protect tooth enamel from plaque and sugars. By using fluoride toothpaste, for instance, everyone can enjoy some cavity protection. Fewer cavities means healthier teeth when you're an adult — and less chance of having to wear false teeth dentures when you're old! So how do you get your fluoride?

Ask your dentist the next time you have an appointment. In addition to fluoride toothpaste, he or she might recommend a mouthwash that has fluoride in it. And if your drinking water doesn't have fluoride in it, your dentist might suggest supplements — which are like vitamins containing fluoride.

How does fluoride help prevent cavities? Fluoride is one of the most powerful minerals to help prevent tooth decay by making the tooth enamel more resistant to those attacking acids. It can also actually reverse very early decay. How can your family receive the cavity-fighting benefits of fluoride? Fluoride is found in certain foods meat, fish and eggs and in most cases, local drinking water. It can also be directly applied to the teeth through fluoridated toothpastes or mouth rinses.

The mouth rinses containing a low strength of fluoride can usually be purchased over the counter, while those with a higher concentration of fluoride, may require a prescription.