Final answer:
Fluorides prevent dental caries mainly by making tooth enamel more resistant to demineralization, creating fluorapatite for increased resistance to acids, and possessing antimicrobial properties which slow enamel degradation. Fluoride is added to products like toothpaste and drinking water, and community water fluoridation provides widespread benefits.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fluorides are effective in the prevention of dental caries primarily by causing tooth enamel to become more resistant to demineralization. The addition of fluoride to toothpaste and drinking water helps to rebuild and strengthen the tooth's surface, or enamel. Fluorapatite, which is less soluble than hydroxyapatite, is created by the reaction of fluoride ions with tooth enamel, thereby offering enhanced resistance to acid attacks from oral bacteria.
Community water fluoridation is a cost-effective means of providing fluoride to all, reducing tooth decay by 25% in both children and adults. The use of fluoride-containing products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, and dietary supplements further aid in the prevention and control of dental caries.
Moreover, fluoride has antimicrobial properties and promotes remineralization by enhancing the uptake of calcium and phosphate ions in the tooth enamel. Regular dental cleanings and using fluoride treatments can significantly reduce the incidence of dental caries.