What is the main component of toothpaste that is effective in preventing cavities?

Fluoride is the main component of toothpaste that effectively prevents cavities. It works by strengthening the enamel of teeth, making them more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth. Studies have shown that fluoride can not only help in the remineralization of early carious lesions but also reduce the overall incidence of dental caries.

Fluoride achieves its protective effect through various mechanisms; it can enhance the deposition of minerals like calcium and phosphate that help repair tooth enamel. Additionally, it inhibits the activity of harmful bacteria in the mouth that produce acid, further reducing the risk of cavities.

The other components listed, while they may have their own functions in oral care, do not primarily focus on cavity prevention. Calcium carbonate acts as an abrasive and can assist in polishing the teeth and removing surface stains, but it does not have the same cavity-preventing properties as fluoride. Sodium lauryl sulfate is a surfactant that helps create foam, which aids in spreading the toothpaste but does not contribute to reducing cavities. Hydrogen peroxide has bleaching properties and may help in whitening the teeth, but it does not primarily target cavity prevention.