what does flouride do to your teeth?
http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/fluoride-treatment
it cleanss your teeth.
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that plays a crucial role in dental health. It helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel, which is the outer protective layer of your teeth. Here's how fluoride benefits your teeth:
1. Remineralization: When you eat, the bacteria in your mouth produce acids that attack the tooth enamel, leading to the demineralization of the teeth. Fluoride helps in the remineralization process by attracting other minerals like calcium and phosphate back into the enamel. This strengthens and hardens the enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks.
2. Inhibition of Acid Attack: Fluoride interferes with the metabolism of oral bacteria, making them less able to produce the acids that harm your teeth. It also reduces the ability of bacteria to stick to tooth surfaces, minimizing plaque formation.
3. Reduction of Tooth Decay: Numerous studies have shown that regularly using fluoride toothpaste, rinses, or drinking fluoridated water can significantly decrease the occurrence of tooth decay, especially in children.
So, in summary, fluoride helps protect your teeth by strengthening the enamel, promoting remineralization, inhibiting acid-producing bacteria, and reducing the risk of tooth decay. To benefit from fluoride, you can use fluoride-based toothpaste, mouthwash, or consume fluoridated water, as recommended by dental professionals.