Pharmacologic Substance
fluoride Audio
fluor·ide [ floo r-ahyd, flawr-, flohr- ]
Subclass of:
Hydrofluoric Acid; Anions
Definitions related to fluorides:
  • A form of the element fluorine that helps prevent tooth decay. Fluoride may be naturally present in drinking water or may be added to it. Fluoride may also be put directly on the teeth, as a gel, toothpaste, or a rinse.
    NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • A mineral that protects teeth from decay and cavities.
    Harvard Dictionary of Health Terms
    Harvard Medical Publishing, 2011
  • Fluorine ion requiring removal of one electron to return to its elemental state.
    CRCH Nutrition Terminology
    Cancer Research Center of Hawaii, University of Hawaii, 2021
  • Inorganic salts of hydrofluoric acid, HF, in which the fluorine atom is in the -1 oxidation state. (McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific and Technical Terms, 4th ed) Sodium and stannous salts are commonly used in dentifrices.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
  • (fluoride ion) Considered a trace element, fluoride is any combination of elements containing the fluorine atom in the -1 oxidation state (fluoride ion). Due to its reactivity, fluorine is found in nature as fluorine compounds or fluorides. Fluoride inhibits various enzyme systems, erythrocyte glycolysis and binds Ca++, causing anticoagulation and other toxic effects. In addition, fluoride is a mitogen for osteoblasts and stimulates bone formation. (NCI)
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
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