American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam

What is the effect of fluoride on incipient lesions?

1. It causes irreversible damage

2. It can remineralize incipient lesions

3. It has no impact on lesions

4. It results in further decay

The correct answer is: It can remineralize incipient lesions

Fluoride plays a significant role in the remineralization process of incipient lesions, which are early stages of dental caries characterized by demineralization of the enamel. When fluoride is present, it enhances the incorporation of minerals like calcium and phosphate into the enamel structure, which can effectively reverse the demineralization process that occurs in these early lesions. The mechanism behind this is that fluoride facilitates the formation of fluorapatite, a more acid-resistant mineral compared to hydroxyapatite, the primary mineral component of enamel. This fluorapatite can strengthen the enamel and make it less susceptible to future acid attacks from bacteria in the mouth. In contrast, the other options do not reflect the beneficial effects of fluoride appropriately. The notion that fluoride causes irreversible damage to teeth is inaccurate, as fluoride is prescribed to help prevent and treat tooth decay rather than harm it. Moreover, the idea that fluoride has no impact on lesions ignores the well-documented role it plays in dental health. Lastly, stating that fluoride results in further decay contradicts extensive research evidencing its protective effects against caries development.