Orthodontic Assistant Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Orthodontic Assistant Exam with engaging quizzes. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready to excel!

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For maximum benefit to teeth, what is the optimum fluoride concentration?

0.5 ppm
1 ppm
2 ppm
3 ppm

The correct answer is: 1 ppm

Fluoride has been widely recognized for its effectiveness in preventing dental caries and strengthening tooth enamel. The optimum fluoride concentration for maximizing the benefits to teeth while minimizing potential adverse effects is 1 ppm (parts per million). At this concentration, fluoride can effectively enhance remineralization, inhibit demineralization, and reduce the overall incidence of cavities. It is a balance that allows the fluoride to achieve its protective effects without the risk of fluorosis, a condition that can occur with excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development. Higher concentrations, such as 2 ppm or 3 ppm, may provide additional benefits in terms of caries prevention but significantly increase the risk of fluoride toxicity and enamel fluorosis, especially in children whose teeth are still developing. Therefore, 1 ppm is considered the most effective and safe level for community water fluoridation and daily fluoride exposure.