Post by aimdiagno on Mar 26, 2015 12:09:32 GMT
Enamel is formed of hydroxyapatite crystals, but in the presence of fluoride ion, the hydroxy ion is substituted and a fluoroapatite crystal is formed on the outer enamel. The fluoroapatite crystal is less soluble and more acid resistant, thereby becoming more caries resistant. The more often fluoride is present in the saliva, the more caries resistant teeth become. This is especially true of newly erupted teeth that have not yet reached full mineral content. These teeth are especially prone to decay, but benefit the most from topical fluoride.