Fluoride toothpaste is sometimes recommended because fluoride

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prevents plaque formation

hardens the enamel of the tooth

kills pathogenic bacteria

prevents tooth ache

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This question was previously asked in

UPSC NDA-2 – 2016

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Fluoride toothpaste is sometimes recommended because fluoride hardens the enamel of the tooth.

Fluoride works by strengthening the tooth enamel through a process called remineralization. When fluoride is present in the mouth, it is incorporated into the crystalline structure of the enamel, forming fluorapatite. Fluorapatite is more resistant to acid dissolution than hydroxyapatite, the original mineral in enamel. This increased resistance helps protect teeth from decay caused by acids produced by bacteria in plaque, effectively hardening the enamel and making it more resilient to cavities.

While fluoride can have some antibacterial effects at higher concentrations, its primary mechanism for preventing cavities in toothpaste is by enhancing enamel remineralization and increasing its acid resistance. Brushing action and other ingredients help remove plaque, but fluoride itself doesn’t primarily prevent plaque formation. It helps prevent tooth decay, which is a common cause of toothache, but it is not a direct pain reliever.

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