Questions and Answers
What is the maximum amount of NaF that can be dispensed per household at one time?
What are the primary benefits of fluoride?
Prevention of dental caries and remineralization of teeth.
Topical fluoride can only be administered by a dentist.
False
Which of the following fluoride compounds is commonly used in professional settings?
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Fluoride has a ___ effect, which can help reduce the risk of dental caries.
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What are common forms of fluoride dietary supplements?
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Fluoride can enhance remineralization of tooth enamel?
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What is the recommended fluoride level in water supply?
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Match the following fluoride preparations with their respective concentrations:
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List one method of self-applied fluoride.
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Fluoride is ineffective in reducing bacterial activity at high concentrations.
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Study Notes
Fluoride Metabolism
- Fluoride intake occurs through food, liquids, and dental products like dentifrices and mouth rinses.
- Absorption starts with passive diffusion in the stomach as hydrofluoric acid (HF) and occurs within 60 minutes; excess fluoride is absorbed in the small intestine.
- Fluoride reaches the bloodstream within 30 minutes, with plasma distributing fluoride to all tissues, primarily stored in teeth and bones.
- 99% of fluoride is integrally bound in the mineral structure, with the highest concentrations found on tooth surfaces.
- Excretion primarily happens through kidneys, with small amounts found in sweat, feces, and breast milk.
Effects of Fluoride
- Fluoride enhances remineralization and inhibits demineralization of tooth enamel.
- It accumulates in biofilm and saliva, and high concentrations can reduce bacterial activity, helping to prevent dental caries.
Water Fluoridation
- Recommended fluoride levels in drinking water range from 0.7 to 1.2 parts per million (ppm).
- Acceptable fluoride compounds for water adjustment include sodium fluoride, sodium silicofluoride, and hydrofluorosilicic acid, chosen for solubility and cost-effectiveness.
Benefits of Fluoridation
- Effective in reducing dental caries in primary teeth and minimizing tooth loss among adults.
- Contributes to the prevention of periodontal diseases.
Fluoride Sources
- Dietary sources include certain foods, salt, and bottled water, with a halo effect spreading fluoride from fluoridated water supplies.
Dietary Supplements
- Assess water fluoride levels to determine the need for supplements.
- Available in forms like tablets, lozenges, rinses, and drops; dosage guidelines are essential.
Topical Fluoride Compounds
- Common professional fluoride treatments include 2.0% sodium fluoride (gel or foam), 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF), and 5% neutral sodium varnish.
- Objectives of topical treatments focus on caries prevention, remineralization, and desensitization.
Application Techniques
- During fluoride application, plaque and calculus should be removed, and patient counseling provided regarding caries risk and post-treatment instructions.
- Common application techniques include tray application for gels or foam and paint-on varnish methods.
Self-Applied Fluorides
- Self-applied fluoride methods include tray applications, rinsing, and toothbrushing.
- Gels must be used with caution, with specific concentrations and precautions detailed in patient instructions.
Fluoride Mouthrinses
- Available as low potency/high frequency or high potency/low frequency preparations, beneficial for caries prevention but with certain limitations.
Brush-On Gels and Dentifrices
- Brush-on gels contain varying concentrations of fluoride for effective dental caries protection.
- Fluoride-containing dentifrices are recommended for all patients, serving as the first line of preventive care.
Patient Instructions
- Fluoride safety and a combined program of fluoride use should be emphasized in patient education.
- Age-specific recommendations for fluoride toothpaste use exist, tailoring for toddlers, children, and adults.
Toxicity and Lethal Dose
- Fluoride toxicity can be acute or chronic, with accidental ingestion posing risks.
- Certain lethal doses include 0.5 to 1.0 grams of sodium fluoride for children and 5 to 10 grams for adults, highlighting the need for careful storage and monitoring.
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Description
Explore the essential concepts of fluoride metabolism and its role in oral health. This quiz covers the mechanisms of fluoride absorption and its sources, including food and dental products. Test your understanding of how fluoride contributes to the promotion, prevention, and control of oral health.
