Review of fluoride research since 1959.

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Biochemistry
• Material Science

Background:

• Dental caries is a prevalent oral disease.
• Fluoride's role in caries prevention is well-established.
• Two primary hypotheses explain fluoride's mechanism of action.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evidence for two main hypotheses on fluoride's (F) caries-reducing effects.
• To determine the predominant mechanism of fluoride action in preventing dental caries.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on fluoride and dental caries.
• Analysis of evidence supporting different hypotheses of fluoride's mode of action.

Main Results:

• Low concentrations of fluoride in plaque promote remineralization of dental tissue.
• This remineralization effect is favored by frequent renewal of fluoride.
• The findings support a net reduction in demineralization during cariogenic episodes.

Conclusions:

• The primary mechanism of fluoride in caries reduction involves promoting remineralization.
• This occurs at low fluoride concentrations in plaque, requiring frequent replenishment.
• This contrasts with the hypothesis that high fluoride concentrations reduce tooth mineral solubility.