Hygiene Atlas

Atlas · Plate XV · Caries and Preventive Agents · 03

How fluoride works

Fluoride works mainly at the tooth surface after eruption. It slows demineralization, speeds remineralization and builds fluorapatite, which resists acid down to about pH 4.5 instead of 5.5. It also blocks bacterial enzymes such as enolase, so plaque makes less acid. Small, frequent amounts in saliva and plaque give the most protection.

High-yield facts · 4

  1. Fluoride's main effect is topical and after eruption: it slows demineralization, speeds remineralization and makes fluorapatite-rich enamel.S33
  2. Fluoride also inhibits bacterial enzymes (enolase), reducing acid production.S33
  3. Fluorapatite starts dissolving at about pH 4.5, compared with about 5.5 for hydroxyapatite.S37
  4. Low, frequent fluoride levels in saliva and plaque give the most benefit.S33

Facts are written in our own words; each tag links to its source. Values marked "sources vary" differ between references, so check the one your program uses.