Public Health · single question
Which component in toothpaste provides BOTH antiplaque AND anti-gingivitis effects?
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Correct answer: D. Stannous fluoride
- A. Sodium fluoride prevents caries but does NOT have significant antiplaque or anti-gingivitis activity.
- B. Sodium monofluorophosphate prevents caries but lacks meaningful antiplaque/anti-gingivitis activity.
- C. Sodium lauryl sulfate is a detergent/foaming agent — it can disrupt some bacteria but is not classified as an antiplaque/anti-gingivitis agent and can actually irritate mucosa.
- D. Stannous fluoride (SnF₂) provides DUAL benefits: (1) fluoride for caries prevention and (2) stannous (tin) ions that have significant antimicrobial activity against plaque bacteria, providing antiplaque and anti-gingivitis effects. It is the only fluoride compound with documented antiplaque and anti-gingivitis efficacy in toothpastes (e.g., Crest Pro-Health, Sensodyne Pronamel).