Fluorides-foundation for healthy teeth: a dental perspectives

The tooth cavity is the common problem in the enamel surface due to the predominance of the demineralization process. It can be controlled with different factors like sufficient salivation in remineralization agents, antibacterial protection, and pathologic factor. Fluoride ion (F−) is the oral hygiene active ingredient and best choice for control caries, prevent decay, crumbling of the bone tooth. F−. In general forms fluorapatite (FA) on the enamel surface, which inhibits mineral loss during the demineralization process. However, recommended optimum deposition of FA on the enamel surface, otherwise, FA leads to inhibit full remineralization. However, regularly consume fluoride causes dental fluorosis during tooth development. Hence, need for an alternative non-fluoride agent for dental caries, which can include effective remineralization without risks associated with F−. This review described fluoride release and re-release ability with application of dental materials, remineralizing potential of fluoridated and non-fluoridated products in dentistry such as casein phosphopeptides, nanohydroxyapatite, tricalcium phosphate, dicalcium phosphate dehydrate, polyols, SensiStat, trimetaphosphate, and herbal products. Lastly, dental perspectives are described. Based on literature results and discussion, nanohydroxyapatite, fluoride, and tricalcium phosphate are best among toothpaste to enhance the remineralization process. Recently, the focus of restorative dentistry is shifted toward more conservative approaches. Hence, F− releasing filling materials with different fluoride-releasing abilities like GIC, giomers, cermets, compomers, and composite materials proved beneficial for the patient. The presence of fluoride anions in the oral cavity has added advantage of being a potent antibacterial and antifungal agent.