Question

Fluoride plays a role in the development and maintenance of healthy teeth and bones. As with all nutrients, consuming too much or too little may have adverse consequences. Choose the correct statement about fluoride.a. Fluoride combines with calcium and phosphorus to form fluorohydroxyapatite, which enhances teeth’s resistance to destruction by bacteria.b Parents who are concerned that their children are not obtaining sufficient fluoride may purchase an over-the-counter fluoride supplement.c. Inadequate fluoride intake causes a condition known as fluorosis.d. Strong scientific evidence suggests that consuming fluoridated water increases the risk for cancer.

Answer 1

The correct statement about fluoride in relation to the student's options is (a): Fluoride combines with calcium and phosphorus to form fluorohydroxyapatite, which enhances teeth’s resistance to destruction by bacteria.

Step-by-step explanation:

Fluoride has a significant role in maintaining dental and bone health by forming fluorapatite, which is more resistant to acid attacks, thus protecting teeth. The correct statement about fluoride in relation to the student's options is (a): Fluoride combines with calcium and phosphorus to form fluorohydroxyapatite, which enhances teeth’s resistance to destruction by bacteria.

As fluoride helps in the formation of fluorapatite, it increases the resistance of teeth to acid-induced demineralization. Statement (c), which says that inadequate fluoride intake causes fluorosis is incorrect; it is actually excess fluoride that leads to fluorosis. Concerning statement (d), there is no strong scientific evidence suggesting that fluoridated water increases the risk of cancer. For those concerned about fluoride intake, bottled or distilled water might be an alternative, as (b) over-the-counter fluoride supplements are suggested only when prescribed by healthcare professionals, not as an outright consumer choice.

Answer 2

c. Inadequate fluoride intake causes a condition known as fluorosis

Fluorosis is a condition where the appereance of the teeth changes having white markings on the surface of the teeth. Fluorosis is caused by high intake of fluor the first 8 years of life because permenent teeth are being formed.