What is Fluoride and How Does It Reduce Tooth Decay?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring element that prevents tooth decay from within (systemically) when ingested during tooth development and on the surface (topically) when applied to erupted teeth. Systemic fluorides taken regularly during the time when teeth are developing (6 months to 16+ years of age) are deposited throughout the entire tooth surface and provide longer-lasting protection than those applied topically. Sources of systemic fluorides include water, dietary fluoride supplements in the forms of tablets, drops or lozenges, and fluoride present in food and beverages. Topical fluorides strengthen teeth already present in the mouth. In this method of delivery, fluoride is absorbed into the surface of the teeth, making them more decay-resistant. Topical fluorides include toothpastes, mouth rinses and professionally applied fluoride gels, foams and rinses. Researchers have observed fluoride’s decay preventive effects in three specific ways: 1) Fluoride makes tooth enamel harder a
