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Tooth enamel is hard, consisting of many closely packed minerals. After a meal, acid from bacteria in your mouth forms on the outside of the tooth and seeps into the enamel's microscopic pores. Once this happens, a process called demineralization occurs, and produces a weak spot in the tooth's enamel. If left unchecked, this area can decay and cause a cavity to form.
Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by slowing the breakdown of enamel, and speeding the process of remineralization. Common sources of fluoride are fluoridated drinking water, fluoride gels, mouth rinses, drops, and tablets. |
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