What is one benefit of fluoride in dental care?

Fluoride is widely recognized in dental care for its ability to strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent caries (cavities). When fluoride is incorporated into the enamel during the process of remineralization, it enhances the tooth's resistance to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth. This not only helps to repair early stages of tooth decay but also makes the enamel more resilient against future decay.

In contrast to the other options, fluoride does not eliminate stains or promote whitening. It also has a broader role than just being effective against plaque; it actively contributes to mineralizing enamel and preventing decay rather than simply targeting plaque. Thus, its main benefit remains in strengthening enamel and reducing the incidence of cavities, making the correct choice clear.