How does fluoride exposure affect caries risk?

• A. Increases Demineralization
• B. No Effect
• C. Fluoride Increases Resistance of Tooth Structure to Demineralization
• D. Only Affects Aesthetics

Answer: (C)

Fluoride exposure reduces caries risk by strengthening tooth structure and promoting remineralization. It makes enamel more resistant to acid attack by forming fluorapatite, which is less soluble than the normal mineral. Fluoride also helps rebuild mineral lost during demineralization by attracting calcium and phosphate back into the enamel, tipping the balance toward remineralization. In addition, at typical preventive levels it can inhibit acid production by plaque bacteria, further lowering caries risk. The other statements don’t fit because demineralization isn’t increased by fluoride, fluoride’s benefits extend beyond aesthetics, and there is a well-established effect on caries reduction.