From the time babies get their first teeth, their enamel begins to be worn down by acids produced by plaque. This process is called demineralization. Fluoride is an important mineral that not only resists the loss of enamel, it helps to rebuild it – remineralization. This is why we offer fluoride treatments for both children and adults at CITIDental High Street.
Even as adults, there is a constant battle on the surfaces of our teeth between demineralization and remineralization. Brushing and flossing to remove plaque helps reduce the loss of enamel, but does not stop in entirely. Destruction of enamel eventually results in cavities and tooth decay.
Countering this is remineralization, in which minerals such as calcium and phosphate combine to repair and rebuild enamel. Fluoride also assists in remineralization to create stronger enamel. Additionally, fluoride helps counteract the effect of the bacterial acids that eat away at the teeth, not just preventing cavities but partially filling them in. Because of this, fluoride is widely recognized by dental professionals as an essential part of preventive dentistry.