How Does Fluoride Work?

Fluoride helps protect teeth in two main ways:

Remineralization: Plaque acids work to remove minerals from teeth, weakening them and sometimes leading to cavities. Fluoride actually helps to reverse this demineralization process by bringing minerals to the site.

Strengthening: Fluroide can also be absorbed into the enamel layer of the tooth, increasing both the tooth’s strength and its resistance to further acid attacks.

Fluoride Additives

Here are some common kinds of ingredients that are added to toothpaste to address particular oral care concerns.

Potassium Nitrate:	Used to desensitize sensitive teeth.
Pyrophosphaste:	Used in tartar control toothpastes to keep new tartar from forming above the gum line.
Stronium Chloride:	Protects the part of the teeth connected to the nerves to soothe sensitive teeth.
Tripolyphosphate:	Used in tartar control toothpastes to keep new tartar from forming above the gum line.