Final answer:
Fluoride contributes to dental health by rebuilding and strengthening enamel, promoting the remineralization of teeth, and exhibiting antimicrobial properties that prevent cavity formation. It is a key ingredient in toothpaste and is also added to drinking water for better oral health, especially for children and adults.
Step-by-step explanation:
The addition of fluoride to drinking water, toothpastes, and mouthwashes has been a bedrock practice in dental health to hinder the decay of teeth. Fluoride operates by rebuilding and fortifying tooth enamel, thereby making it more resistant to the acids produced by oral bacteria. Sodium fluoride (NaF) and stannous fluoride (SnF2) are commonly used fluorides in dental care products. Beyond strengthening enamel, fluoride also assists in the process of remineralization by enhancing the absorption of calcium and phosphate into the tooth enamel. Community water fluoridation is considered the most economical method for delivering fluoride to the populace, effectively reducing tooth decay by about 25% in both children and adults.
In addition to its role in enamel protection, fluoride possesses antimicrobial properties that help to prevent cavities. Various forms of fluoride, such as sodium fluoride, stannous fluoride, olaflur, and sodium monofluorophosphate, all contribute to cavity prevention. These chemical agents integrate into the hydroxyapatite of the enamel to form fluorapatite, Ca5(PO4)3F, which is less soluble and more resistant to acid erosion. On top of being bacteriostatic, fluoride limits the cavity-creating acid production by plaque-forming bacteria. It is also crucial for children under age 8 as it strengthens the developing permanent teeth beneath the gums.