Introduction to Fluorides in Oral Medicine

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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 Signup and view all the answers

What is fluorine's position on the periodic table in terms of reactivity?

Single most reactive element Signup and view all the answers

Despite its challenging properties, why is fluorine considered important for humans and animals?

Important element Signup and view all the answers

Where is fluoride commonly found?

Drinking water and toothpaste Signup and view all the answers

What year will cover a more in-depth study of fluorides according to the lecture?

2nd year Signup and view all the answers

What is the average concentration of fluoride added to public water supplies?

1 part per million (1 ppm) or 1 milligram per liter Signup and view all the answers

What is the enamel content of carious teeth in terms of fluoride percentage?

0.0069% Signup and view all the answers

Who discovered the relationship between fluorides and mottled enamel in the early 1900s?

GV Black and Dr F McKay Signup and view all the answers

What is fluorosis and what causes it?

Fluorosis is an enamel defect caused by ingestion of excessive fluoride during enamel formation. Signup and view all the answers

How can fluorosis be treated?

Damage is permanent but can be cosmetically treated. Signup and view all the answers

List 3 sources of excessive fluoride exposure.

Public water fluoridation, soda cool drinks, and abnormally high concentrations in natural fresh water. Signup and view all the answers

Why must the fluoride level in water be adjusted in hot/warmer climates?

Due to intake of more water. Signup and view all the answers

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. Signup and view all the answers

What are the visible signs of severe fluorosis?

Cracks, pitting, overall corroded appearance Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of water fluoridation?

To reduce tooth decay Signup and view all the answers

What are the advantages of water fluoridation?

Effective, efficient, reliable, inexpensive, improves oral health, reduces cost of dental care Signup and view all the answers

What is the main disadvantage of water fluoridation?

No choice for the individual Signup and view all the answers

Name one of the commonly used types of fluoride in dentistry.

Sodium fluoride Signup and view all the answers

When was fluoride first added to the water supply for testing in Grand Rapids, Michigan?

1945 Signup and view all the answers

How much did dental caries reduce after fluoride was added to the water supply in Grand Rapids, Michigan?

Approximately 60% Signup and view all the answers

How does fluoride enter the body?

Through food, respiration, and products containing fluoride Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary compound that makes up tooth enamel?

Hydroxyapatite Signup and view all the answers

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. Signup and view all the answers

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. Signup and view all the answers

What are some examples of sources of systemic fluorides?

Every food group, most liquids, community drinking water, dietary supplements. Signup and view all the answers

What are the effects of topical fluorides on teeth?

Antibacterial, disrupts enzyme systems, remineralization of small defects, improved enamel quality, inhibits demineralization. Signup and view all the answers

Name some examples of professionally applied topical fluorides.

Gel application, varnish, polishing paste. Signup and view all the answers

When would clinicians apply fluoride for a patient?

Primary teeth, active caries, orthodontic appliance wearers, compromised salivary flow, lack of compliance, post-eruptive period. Signup and view all the answers

What are some situations where fluoride is beneficial for dental health?

Tooth mineralization, enamel remineralization, reduction of dental caries Signup and view all the answers

What are the potential risks of fluoride toxicity?

Mottled enamel (fluorosis), acute or chronic poisoning Signup and view all the answers

In what situations might fluoride toxicity occur?

Ingestion of high fluoride levels in water or over a long period of time Signup and view all the answers

What is the lethal dose range of fluoride in adults?

2.5 - 10 grams Signup and view all the answers

How can chronic fluoride poisoning manifest in dental health?

Mottled enamel, fluorosis, enamel hypoplasia Signup and view all the answers

What are the benefits of fluoride ingestion in terms of tooth health?

Stronger enamel, reduced dental caries, improved periodontal health Signup and view all the answers

What can happen if there is low or no fluoride in the water?

Increased risk of dental caries Signup and view all the answers

What are some sources of fluoride for home care?

Toothpaste and mouth rinses Signup and view all the answers