How does fluoride protect teeth?
Fluoride benefits both children and adults. Here’s how: Before teeth break through the gums, the fluoride taken in from foods, beverages and dietary supplements strengthens tooth enamel making it stronger and more resistant to cavities. This provides what is called a “systemic” benefit. After teeth erupt, fluoride helps rebuild (remineralize) weakened tooth enamel and reverse early signs of tooth decay. When you brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste, or use other fluoride dental products, you are providing a “topical” benefit because the fluoride is applied to the surface of your teeth. In addition, the fluoride you take in from foods and beverages continues to provide a topical benefit because it becomes part of your saliva, constantly bathing the teeth and helping to rebuild weakened tooth enamel.
Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay in three main ways. First, fluoride can stimulate a process called remineralization, which helps reverse the effects of early tooth decay. Remineralization is the opposite of demineralization, which occurs when acids eat away at teeth, creating weak spots and eventually leading to cavities. Secondly, fluoride strengthens teeth and makes them more resistant to tooth decay and damage. Third, fluoride interferes with the metabolic processes of the bacteria which cause tooth decay, stopping them from producing the harmful acids which can damage teeth.
