Tooth enamel is hard. It consists of many closely-packed
rods made of minerals. When you eat, acid forms on
the outside of the tooth and seeps into the enamel's
rods. This demineralization process can produce a weak
spot in the tooth's surface. If unchecked, the enamel
can decay and create a cavity.
Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by slowing the breakdown
of enamel and speeding up the natural remineralization
process. These microscopic views of the tooth's chewing
surface show how the fluoride works.
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Healthy tooth enamel rods exist before an acid's
onslaught.
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Enamel rods demineralized, or are broken down,
by the acid.
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Enamel rods remineralize, or are rebuilt by
fluoride and the minerals in saliva.
Progression of Tooth Decay
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Tooth decay often begins on biting
surfaces, between the teeth, and on exposed rods.
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Untreated, the cavity becomes
larger.
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Decay spreads beneath the enamel
and can destroy the tooth structure.
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Decay enters the pulp and an abscess
may occur.
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Use of fluoridated toothpaste
can help prevent tooth decay at its early stage.
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