Tooth Solubility

Question 1

What is a chelating agent?

Answer 1

Mops up ions i.e. calcium.

Increases erosion, shifts equilibrium to the right.

Question 2

What do Fluoride ions do?

Answer 2

Binds to hydroxyapatite, replacing the OH group.

Question 3

What is the benefit of fluoride ions binding to hydroxyapatite?

Answer 3

F ions create a more stable molecule.

Reduces enamel solubility.

Inhibits bacterial metabolism of carbohydrates.

Promotes enamel remineralisation by saliva.

Question 4

What happens when equilibrium of hydroxyapatite is shifted to the right?

Answer 4

Solubilisation of calcium phosphate.

Question 5

What happens to the equilibrium of hydroxyapatite when it is shifted to the left?

Answer 5

Promotes remineralisation and inhibits solubilisation.