Tooth solubility

Question 1

What are teeth composed of

Answer 1

Teeth and bone consist of calcium phosphate crystals held together by a mainly protein matrix

Question 2

Is the proportion of mineral higher in teeth or bones

Answer 2

Teeth (95% - tooth enamel and 70% - dentine) Hydroxyapatite (mineral component) gives teeth and bone their rigidity

Question 3

What is erosion

Answer 3

The direct effect of acids from the diet on teeth

Question 4

How are caries produced

Answer 4

By acids produces by the plaque bacteria

Question 5

How does fluoride act to reduce dental caries

Answer 5

-Reduces enamel solubility at low pH
-Inhibits bacterial metabolism of carbohydrates
-Promotes enamel remineralisation by saliva

Question 6

How is fluorapatite formed

Answer 6

Fluoride is incorporated into hydroxyapatite where the OH- ions are replaced by F- ions as they are smaller and fit into the crystal better rendering it more stable and thus less soluble in acid