Question

The mechanism(s) of action of fluoride is (are):

A. Disrupts cellular metabolism of the intra-oral bacteria that promote caries.
B. Incorporation of fluoride into the surface crystals of the enamel, thereby reducing the solubility of the enamel.
C. Enhances the remineralization process.
D. All of the above.
E. A and C

Answer 1

The mechanisms of action of fluoride include disrupting bacteria metabolism, incorporating into enamel as fluorapatite, and enhancing remineralization, making 'D. All of the above' the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

The mechanisms of action of fluoride are multiple and include the following effects:

• Disruption of the cellular metabolism of intra-oral bacteria that promote caries, leading to a bacteriostatic effect.
• Incorporation of fluoride into the surface crystals of the enamel. This is achieved by reacting with hydroxyapatite to form fluorapatite, thereby making enamel more resistant to acidic attacks and reducing its solubility.
• Enhancement of the remineralization process by facilitating the uptake of calcium and phosphate ions into tooth enamel.

Therefore, the correct answer to the question is 'D. All of the above.' Fluoride is integral to oral health and is commonly added to toothpaste and tap water for its preventative benefits against tooth decay.