Topical Effects of Fluoride in the Reversal and Prevention of Dental Decay

ABSTRACT

This paper briefly reviews the clinical evidence for, and the science behind, the topical effects of fluoride in the inhibition and reversal of dental caries. Fluoride from topical sources such as drinking water, mouthrinses, dentifrice, and office- applied gels and foams inhibits demineralization and enhances remineralization. Inhibition of demineralization occurs when fluoride diffuses into the tooth and adsorbs to the crystal surfaces, protecting them from further acid attack. During times when the plaque pH is raised by salivary buffering, remineralization takes place through calcium and phosphate diffusing to the crystal surfaces in the subsurface lesion and building a new veneer on the remaining crystal remnants in the lesion. Fluoride speeds up this process, is incorporated together with calcium and phosphate, and leaves the crystal much more acid resistant. Remineralization is the body's natural caries repair process.