Toothpaste

Animation showing the loss of minerals from the surfaces of the tooth followed by the remineralization effect of fluoride on the tooth.

During the initial stage of tooth decay, when minerals are lost from the surfaces of the tooth, and a cavity has not formed yet, an appropriate amount of fluoride can promote the remineralization (enhance the saliva to replenish the lost minerals) of the tooth and repair early tooth decay.
Animation showing that after fluoride enters the tooth surface, it strengthens the tooth by increasing its resistance to acid attack.

Fluoride strengthens teeth, and increases their resistance to acid attacks.
Animation showing that after fluoride enters the tooth surface, it inhibits the growth of bacteria in the dental plaque.

Fluoride inhibits the growth of dental plaque and reduces its acid-producing capability.