Tooth decay is caused by acid-producing bacteria called plaque, which will collect around your teeth and gums. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are helpful to get rid of a lot of this plaque, but fluoride treatments help prevent plaque and can repair teeth in the earliest stages of tooth decay. Below are some factors that increase your risk of tooth decay and increase the need for fluoride treatment: -Poor oral hygiene -Lack of regular professional dental care -Active orthodontic treatments -Exposed root surfaces of teeth -Poor diet -Existing restorations Fluoride helps protect your teeth by replacing some of the weak parts of enamel with a stronger material. When fluoride is in your mouth, it replaces hydroxide ions in the enamel with fluoride, forming fluorapatite, which is much tougher and more resistant to acid. This makes your enamel stronger and less likely to get damaged by acids from bacteria and sugary foods. Essentially, fluoride helps rebuild and toughen up your teeth at a chemical level.
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