Book 27, Question 121 · Video
How does fluoride toothpaste help teeth?
The hard outer coat of your teeth, enamel, is made of tiny crystals of a calcium mineral. Acids from sugary foods and germs can dissolve a bit of them. Fluoride, found in many toothpastes, can join the crystals and make them tougher against acid. That is why dentists recommend brushing with a small, pea-sized dab of fluoride toothpaste and not swallowing it.
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What Crafty Clover says in this video
Intro
Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How does fluoride toothpaste help teeth?
The Big Idea
Brushing your teeth helps protect their crystals! Yes, your teeth have crystals. Let's see how fluoride helps.
Enamel
Step one: Enamel. The hard outer coat of your teeth, enamel, is made of tiny crystals of a calcium mineral. It protects the softer parts inside.
Acid Attack
Step two: Acid Attack. Acids from sugary foods and germs can dissolve a bit of the enamel crystals. Over time, that can cause cavities.
Fluoride
Step three: Fluoride. Fluoride, found in many toothpastes, can join the crystals and make them tougher against acid. Dentists recommend brushing with a small, pea-sized dab of fluoride toothpaste and not swallowing it.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look! Enamel protects. Sugar feeds germs. Germs make acid. Brushing helps.
Quick Facts
Quick facts! Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. Use a pea-sized dab. Don't swallow toothpaste. Brush for two minutes.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! Brush your teeth for two minutes tonight. Use a pea-sized dab of toothpaste. Spit it out when done. Draw a picture of the crystals in your teeth. Show your dentist!
Outro
Tooth enamel is made of tiny calcium crystals. Acids from sugar and germs can dissolve them, but fluoride joins the crystals and makes them tougher. Brush with a pea-sized dab and don't swallow it. Science is amazing! What will you discover next? Every question is a new adventure, so keep wondering and keep exploring with me! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!