Because topical fluoride is applied directly to the teeth it helps strengthen them from the outside. When fluoride is swallowed it is systemic and benefits teeth from the inside out. Examples of systemic fluoride include supplements, such as fluoride tablets, as well as certain food items that contain fluoride.
http://www.dentalone-md.com/dental-guide-to-fluoride-your-teeth/
A. Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in many foods and water. Every day, minerals are added to and lost from a tooth 's enamel layer through two processes, demineralization and remineralization.
http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/fluoride-treatment
All soil, water, and some types of food contain the naturally occurring element that is known as fluoride. It is a mineral that is used to fight against the decaying of teeth. People have access to fluoride in several different ways. The most common way that people use fluoride is in their toothpaste; however, there are other dental products that contain the mineral in varying degrees, such as mouth rinses and supplements.
http://www.dentalone-md.com/dental-guide-to-fluoride-your-teeth/
Fluoride's Importance to the Teeth. Enamel, the outer layer of the crown of a tooth, is made of closely packed mineral crystals. Every day, minerals are lost and gained from inside the enamel crystals. Losing minerals is called demineralization. Gaining them back is called remineralization.
http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/basics/fluoride/article/fluoride-and-your-teeth
These treatments contain a much higher level of fluoride than the amount found in toothpastes and mouth rinses. Varnishes are painted on the teeth; foams are put into a mouth guard, which is applied to the teeth for one to four minutes; gels can be painted on or applied via a mouth guard.
http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/fluoride-treatment
As mentioned, fluoride is found in foods and in water. It can also be directly applied to the teeth through fluoridated toothpastes and mouth rinses. Mouth rinses containing fluoride in lower strengths are available over-the-counter; stronger concentrations require a doctor's prescription.
http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/fluoride-treatment
Fluoride in foods, supplements and water enters the bloodstream through the stomach. From there, it is absorbed into the body. In children, the fluoride then becomes available to the teeth that are developing in the jaw.
http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/basics/fluoride/article/fluoride-and-your-teeth
Minerals are lost (demineralization) from a tooth 's enamel layer when acids -- formed from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth -- attack the enamel. Minerals such as fluoride, calcium, and phosphate are redeposited (remineralization) to the enamel layer from the foods and waters consumed. Too much demineralization without enough remineralization to repair the enamel layer leads to tooth decay.
http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/fluoride-treatment
According to the CDC, fluoridation can reduce a person’s lifetime level of tooth decay by as much as 25 percent. 1  Facts About Fluoride (PDF). 2  Mouth Healthy – Fluoride. 3  Dental Health and Fluoride Treatment. 4  Fluoride and Your Teeth.
http://www.dentalone-md.com/dental-guide-to-fluoride-your-teeth/
Fluoride pays an important role in maintaining a person’s teeth and keeping them strong. Although most people are aware that fluoride is a positive dental aid, they may not recognize exactly what it is or how it actually helps protect their teeth and keep them healthy.
http://www.dentalone-md.com/dental-guide-to-fluoride-your-teeth/
what is fluoride that you put on your teeth
Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in many foods and water.