Public Health · single question
All of the following are sources of systemic fluoride EXCEPT:
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Professionally applied topical fluoride (in-office)
C) Professionally applied topical fluoride — CORRECT (NOT a systemic source).
Professional in-office fluoride (varnish, gel, foam) is a TOPICAL application — it acts locally on the tooth surface and is NOT a source of SYSTEMIC fluoride. Even when swallowed in small amounts, the intention and primary action is topical. Systemic fluorosis develops from INGESTED fluoride during tooth development.
A) Swallowed toothpaste: Young children who swallow fluoride toothpaste ingest meaningful amounts — a recognized source of systemic fluoride and fluorosis risk.
B) Water fluoridation: The primary systemic fluoride source — ingested daily, the classic source of systemic fluoride and dental fluorosis when excessive.
D) Infant formula with fluoridated water: A recognized source of excess fluoride intake in infants — associated with fluorosis risk.
Professional in-office fluoride (varnish, gel, foam) is a TOPICAL application — it acts locally on the tooth surface and is NOT a source of SYSTEMIC fluoride. Even when swallowed in small amounts, the intention and primary action is topical. Systemic fluorosis develops from INGESTED fluoride during tooth development.
A) Swallowed toothpaste: Young children who swallow fluoride toothpaste ingest meaningful amounts — a recognized source of systemic fluoride and fluorosis risk.
B) Water fluoridation: The primary systemic fluoride source — ingested daily, the classic source of systemic fluoride and dental fluorosis when excessive.
D) Infant formula with fluoridated water: A recognized source of excess fluoride intake in infants — associated with fluorosis risk.