Tooth decay (also called dental caries) occurs when holes form in parts of the enamel of a tooth. The main cause is due to a build-up of plaque. Using dental preparations which contain sodium fluoride, such as toothpastes and mouthwashes, can help to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. Many toothpastes and mouthwashes which are on general sale contain sodium fluoride. Some fluoride-containing dental preparations can also be prescribed by doctors and dentists.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original article at https://patient.info/medicine/fluoride-preparations-to-prevent-tooth-decay-duraphat-fluor-a-day-fluorigard