A chemical compound of fluorine and sodium, potassium or tin.
An essential mineral. Present in low but varying concentrations in drinking water (1 mg/L), plants, and animals (fish: 50-100 mg per 100 g). It accumulates in human bone tissue and dental enamel. In appropriate amounts, fluoride serves to harden bones and teeth. If consumed in excessive amounts, fluoride is toxic. The normal daily intake is 1-2 mg. Daily ingestion of 20-80 mg of fluoride leads to fluorosis, a toxic state characterized by calcification of soft tissue with effects on function notably renal, muscle, and nerve function.
A fluorine compound excreted in urine if present in the system.
A naturally occurring mineral known to help prevent tooth decay. Fluoride strengthens the enamel on the surface of the tooth and makes the teeth more resistant to decay. Fluoride is added to many public water supplies in the United States; this process is known as fluoridation. Fluoride is also an ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwash. Topical fluoride in a solution or gel may be applied to the teeth at home or in a professional office setting by a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant. In addition to being available in fluoridated water, fluoride may be obtained in over-the counter tablets, drops, lozenges, and some beverages.
A compound of fluorine. Traces of fluoride are found in bone, teeth, thyroid gland, and skin. Small amounts of fluoride in the teeth protect them against decay. The best source of fluoride for prevention of tooth decay is drinking water.
A compound of fluorine, usually with a radical; a salt of hydrofluoric acid. Three preparations of fluoride-containing compounds are available for topical application to teeth for the prevention of decay. They are stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, and acidulated phosphate fluoride. Considerable evidence shows that fluoride compounds prevent dental caries.
A chemical compound that incorporates fluorine and is utilized either for water treatment or direct application to teeth to prevent tooth decay.
Fluoride is a mineral that plays a crucial role in preventing dental caries by reinforcing tooth enamel, making it more resilient to acid attacks. Additionally, fluoride can diminish the acid-producing capacity of microorganisms found in dental plaque.
The ingestion of fluoride during tooth development has a lasting positive impact as it becomes a part of the growing tooth structure. In the UK, fluoride is added to the water supply through fluoridation, which has contributed to a reduction in tooth decay rates among children.
Fluoride offers benefits to both children and adults when applied directly to the teeth during dental treatments or used in mouthwash or toothpaste. However, excessive ingestion of fluoride during tooth formation can lead to fluorosis, causing staining of the tooth enamel.
A chemical that, when found in the local water supply, virtually assures the presence of healthy teeth.