39 Questions
What was the initial belief about the benefits of fluorides?
Beneficial only during tooth development years
What additional benefits of fluoride were discovered through research?
Decline in caries
What is fluoride derived from?
Fluorine
Where is fluoride found in the earth's crust?
Rocks of volcanic origin, all natural waters, soil, cryolite
What is fluorine's position on the periodic table in terms of reactivity?
Single most reactive element
Despite its challenging properties, why is fluorine considered important for humans and animals?
Important element
Where is fluoride commonly found?
Drinking water and toothpaste
What year will cover a more in-depth study of fluorides according to the lecture?
2nd year
What is the average concentration of fluoride added to public water supplies?
1 part per million (1 ppm) or 1 milligram per liter
What is the enamel content of carious teeth in terms of fluoride percentage?
0.0069%
Who discovered the relationship between fluorides and mottled enamel in the early 1900s?
GV Black and Dr F McKay
What is fluorosis and what causes it?
Fluorosis is an enamel defect caused by ingestion of excessive fluoride during enamel formation.
How can fluorosis be treated?
Damage is permanent but can be cosmetically treated.
List 3 sources of excessive fluoride exposure.
Public water fluoridation, soda cool drinks, and abnormally high concentrations in natural fresh water.
Why must the fluoride level in water be adjusted in hot/warmer climates?
Due to intake of more water.
What is the impact of overheating Teflon pans while cooking in relation to fluoride exposure?
Some of the Teflon (a fluorine compound) may be released into the air.
What are the visible signs of severe fluorosis?
Cracks, pitting, overall corroded appearance
What is the main purpose of water fluoridation?
To reduce tooth decay
What are the advantages of water fluoridation?
Effective, efficient, reliable, inexpensive, improves oral health, reduces cost of dental care
What is the main disadvantage of water fluoridation?
No choice for the individual
Name one of the commonly used types of fluoride in dentistry.
Sodium fluoride
When was fluoride first added to the water supply for testing in Grand Rapids, Michigan?
1945
How much did dental caries reduce after fluoride was added to the water supply in Grand Rapids, Michigan?
Approximately 60%
How does fluoride enter the body?
Through food, respiration, and products containing fluoride
What is the primary compound that makes up tooth enamel?
Hydroxyapatite
How does fluoride make the tooth more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria?
Fluoride replaces the hydroxyl molecule on hydroxyapatite, making the tooth more resistant to acid attacks.
What is the main difference between systemic and topical fluorides?
Systemic fluorides are ingested and become incorporated into forming tooth structures, while topical fluorides are directly applied to exposed tooth surfaces.
What are some examples of sources of systemic fluorides?
Every food group, most liquids, community drinking water, dietary supplements.
What are the effects of topical fluorides on teeth?
Antibacterial, disrupts enzyme systems, remineralization of small defects, improved enamel quality, inhibits demineralization.
Name some examples of professionally applied topical fluorides.
Gel application, varnish, polishing paste.
When would clinicians apply fluoride for a patient?
Primary teeth, active caries, orthodontic appliance wearers, compromised salivary flow, lack of compliance, post-eruptive period.
What are some situations where fluoride is beneficial for dental health?
Tooth mineralization, enamel remineralization, reduction of dental caries
What are the potential risks of fluoride toxicity?
Mottled enamel (fluorosis), acute or chronic poisoning
In what situations might fluoride toxicity occur?
Ingestion of high fluoride levels in water or over a long period of time
What is the lethal dose range of fluoride in adults?
2.5 - 10 grams
How can chronic fluoride poisoning manifest in dental health?
Mottled enamel, fluorosis, enamel hypoplasia
What are the benefits of fluoride ingestion in terms of tooth health?
Stronger enamel, reduced dental caries, improved periodontal health
What can happen if there is low or no fluoride in the water?
Increased risk of dental caries
What are some sources of fluoride for home care?
Toothpaste and mouth rinses
Learn about the benefits of fluorides in dentistry through this introductory lecture. Understand how fluoride helps in preventing caries and its impact on dental health.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
