Fluoride Facts: Food Sources, Supplements, and Common Myths
Summary
Definition:Fluoride is the ionic form of the element fluorine.Role:It is a naturally occurring mineral found in soil, water, plants, and a range of foods and dental products.Use:Dental care uses fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the risk of cavities. Primary effect:Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps reverse early tooth decay.How it helps:It makes enamel more resistant to acid, promotes remineralization, and reduces the activity of cavity-causing bacteria.Other storage:A portion of absorbed fluoride is stored in bones and teeth.
Benefits
Absorption:Most orally ingested fluoride is absorbed through the stomach and small intestine.Retention:Children retain a higher percentage because growing teeth and bones take up more fluoride.Excretion:Excess fluoride is mainly excreted in urine.