Final answer:
A history of fluoride use is not a risk factor for root caries; instead, it helps remineralize enamel and prevents tooth decay. Risk factors do include prosthetic devices, medications, gum recession, and microbial biofilm.Option E is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The risk factors for root caries include prosthetic devices, certain medications that reduce saliva flow, gum recession that exposes the root surface, and the presence of microbial biofilm that harbors cariogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans. However, a history of fluoride use is not a risk factor for root caries; in fact, it is protective against tooth decay. Fluoride helps by remineralizing tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attack from bacteria and is considered an important component in the prevention of dental caries.
So, history of fluoride (Option E) use is not a risk factor for root caries.
In addition to its protective role in remineralizing enamel, fluoride also inhibits the metabolic activity of cariogenic bacteria, further reducing the risk of root caries. Regular fluoride exposure through dental products or water fluoridation enhances the overall oral health, emphasizing its significance in preventive dentistry and maintaining strong, resilient tooth structures.