DANB General Chairside Practice Test

What role does fluoride play in preventing dental caries?

1. It whitens teeth

2. It strengthens tooth enamel

3. It eliminates gum disease

4. It freshens breath

The correct answer is: It strengthens tooth enamel

Fluoride plays a crucial role in preventing dental caries by strengthening tooth enamel. When fluoride is incorporated into the structure of enamel, it enhances its resistance to acid attacks from bacteria and dietary sugars that can lead to tooth decay. This process is known as remineralization, where fluoride aids in the repair of early carious lesions by promoting the deposition of minerals back into the enamel. In essence, the presence of fluoride not only helps prevent the demineralization of teeth during acid attacks but also assists in rebuilding weak spots, making fluoride a valuable tool in the fight against tooth decay and promoting overall oral health. The other options, while related to oral health, do not directly correlate with the primary action of fluoride in preventing cavities. For example, while fluoride can contribute to improved aesthetics and potentially have a role in gum health through overall dental hygiene, its primary purpose in caries prevention is significant due to its enamel-strengthening properties.