A member asked:

What is fluoride for?

11 doctors weighed in across 5 answers

Fluoride: Fluoride, for dental uses, is a chemical element that, when properly applied to tooth enamel, makes that enamel more resistant to being disolved by the acids tooth decay germs produce that create caries (cavities) Fluoride (Fl) can also become part of the tooth structure if it is ingested by children during the time their teeth are forming..

Answered 7/9/2015

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Fluoride: Fluoride is used to make the teeth harder and more resistant to decay. It becomes incorporated into the enamel structure, replacing a hydroxyl group in the enamel crystal structure. Because it is a bigger atom it makes the enamel harder for acids to attack and destroy the enamel.

Answered 11/30/2014

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Fights decay: Fluoride is s natural mineral found in many foods and water. Tooth enamel looses minerals by the action of acids on the tooth( demineralization ) resulting in decay. Fluoride helps to replace some of those minerals ( remineralization) . However controversy exist on the use of fluoride due to its possible toxic effects in the body.

Answered 12/16/2014

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Dr. Gary Sandler answered

Specializes in Dentistry

Fluoride: In dentistry, fluoride is used to strengthen the outer surface of the tooth- the enamel, and in some cases to reduce sensitivity.

Answered 12/21/2014

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Dr. Paul Grin answered

Specializes in Pain Management

Fluoride is mineral: that is proven to protect against tooth decay.

Answered 4/2/2015

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