Final answer:
The widespread increase in fluoride intake is credited with the reduction in dental activities due to its significant role in strengthening tooth enamel and preventing cavities. Water fluoridation and fluoride-containing dental products have been effective in delivering this nutrient to the public, resulting in better overall dental health.
Step-by-step explanation:
Role of Fluoride in Dental Health
The reduction in dental activities in the U.S. during the last century is partially due to a widespread increase in the intake of fluoride. Fluoride has been an essential nutrient in the fight against tooth decay. When bacteria in the mouth produce acid from sugary foods, it can erode the minerals from the tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Fluoride aids in rebuilding and strengthening the enamel by reacting with hydroxylapatite to form fluorapatite, which is more resistant to acid and hence less soluble. The practice of adding fluoride to drinking water, known as water fluoridation, has provided an efficient and cost-effective method of delivering fluoride to the public, reducing tooth decay by approximately 25% in both adults and children. Additionally, fluoride is a common ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwashes, further contributing to dental health.
Contrastingly, while vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium to maintain strong bones and teeth, an increase in vitamin D intake alone does not directly correlate with the observed reduction in dental activities. Instead, the proper balance of vitamin D and calcium is essential for maintaining overall skeletal health, but it is fluoride that plays a direct role in preventing tooth decay.