Australian Dental Council (ADC) Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Water fluoridation plays a significant role in improving oral health, especially concerning permanent teeth. One of the key benefits of water fluoridation is that it improves salivary fluoride levels. When fluoride is present in drinking water, it is absorbed into the systemic circulation and subsequently can elevate fluoride concentrations in saliva. This increased salivary fluoride not only helps in the remineralization of tooth enamel but also has a protective effect against dental caries.

Since permanent teeth are often exposed to saliva, having higher fluoride levels in saliva can enhance their resistance to acid attacks and reduce the likelihood of decay. The protective mechanisms of fluoride continue to be effective even after the permanent teeth have erupted, as the fluoride in saliva can penetrate the surface of the teeth and support ongoing remineralization.

While other options suggest various misconceptions about fluoride, the ability of water fluoridation to elevate salivary fluoride levels demonstrates its crucial role in promoting oral health beyond the initial development stages of teeth.