Final answer:
Fluoride is the mineral credited with reducing dental caries by strengthening tooth structure. It reacts with hydroxylapatite to form fluorapatite, which is more resistant to acid attacks. Fluoride can be found in drinking water, toothpastes, and mouthwashes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fluoride and Dental Caries
Fluoride is the mineral credited with reducing dental caries by strengthening tooth structure. When fluoride ions react with hydroxylapatite, they form the compound fluorapatite, which is more resistant to acid attacks in our mouths, thus protecting our teeth.
Fluoride can be found in naturally fluorinated water, and it is commonly added to drinking water, toothpastes, and mouthwashes. By incorporating fluoride into the tooth enamel, it helps rebuild and strengthen the tooth's surface, preventing cavities from forming and even rebuilding the tooth enamel.
Summary:
Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth structure and reduces dental caries. It reacts with hydroxylapatite in tooth enamel to form fluorapatite, which is more resistant to acid attacks. Fluoride is commonly found in drinking water, toothpastes, and mouthwashes, and it helps rebuild and strengthen tooth enamel, preventing cavities from forming.
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