Fluoride ion is commonly used in drinking water supplies

Chapter 25, Problem 43AP

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Fluoride ion is commonly used in drinking water supplies and in toothpaste (in the form of sodium fluoride) to prevent tooth decay The fluoride ions replace hydroxide ions in the enamel mineral hydroxyapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F. the same mineral as in bone], forming fluoroapatitc [Ca5(PO4)3F]. Why does replacing the hydroxide ion with fluoride ion prevent tooth decay? How does this relate to the properties of materials used in artificial fillings?

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