This high-yield revision note on Fluoride: Mechanism, Systemic vs Topical, Fluorosis & Defluoridation covers everything examiners typically test under Dental Public Health — structured as quick-reference tables, clinical correlations, mnemonics and previous-year-style high-yield points. It's built for last-mile revision before NEET MDS, INI-CET MDS and INBDE, so you can scan it in minutes instead of re-reading a whole textbook chapter.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Mechanism of action | Incorporation into hydroxyapatite as fluorapatite (more acid-resistant); inhibits bacterial enolase (blocks glycolysis/acid production); promotes remineralization of early carious lesions |
| Systemic sources | Water fluoridation, fluoride supplements (tablets/drops), fluoridated salt/milk programs |
| Topical sources | Fluoridated toothpaste (1000-1500ppm), mouth rinses (0.05% NaF daily or 0.2% weekly), professionally applied gel/foam/varnish (APF, SnF2, 5% NaF varnish) |
| Dental fluorosis | Enamel mottling from excess fluoride ingestion DURING enamel formation (typically before 8 years age); graded by Dean's Fluorosis Index |
| Defluoridation (community method) | Nalgonda technique (alum + lime + bleaching powder) - most widely used low-cost method, notably in India |
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