fluoride

Definition

Fluoride is a mineral that is found in nature. It is also added to water and toothpaste to help prevent tooth decay.

Fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel, which is the hard outer layer of teeth. This makes teeth more resistant to acids produced by bacteria in the mouth.

Fluoride can also help to repair early signs of tooth decay. This is why it is important to brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and to drink fluoridated water.

How can the word be used?

The water in this area contains high levels of fluoride.

Different forms of the word

Noun: fluoride, fluorides.

Adjective: fluoic.

Verb: fluoridate, fluorinated, fluoridating.

Etymology

The word "fluoride" is derived from the Latin word fluor, which means "flow". The Latin word fluor is also the root of the word "fluorine", which is the element that fluoride contains.

Question

What can fluoride help with?