Final answer:
Fluoride inhibits acid demineralization by making tooth enamel more resistant to corrosive acids, promoting remineralization, and interfering with the metabolism of plaque-forming bacteria.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fluoride plays a crucial role in inhibiting acid demineralization in teeth. When fluoride is incorporated into the hydroxyapatite of tooth enamel, it makes the enamel more resistant to corrosive acids produced by oral microbes. Additionally, fluoride enhances the uptake of calcium and phosphate ions in the enamel, promoting remineralization. Fluoride also acts as a bacteriostatic agent, accumulating in plaque-forming bacteria and interfering with their metabolism, reducing their production of acids that cause tooth decay.