Restorative & Materials · single question
Which saliva composition is MOST cariogenic?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Low pH, low viscosity, low flow, low buffer capacity
Cariogenic saliva has low pH, low viscosity, low flow, and low buffer capacity — the worst possible combination for caries protection.
- A. High flow increases washing and buffering even with low pH, making this less cariogenic than option C (low flow).
- B. CORRECT. Low pH = acidic environment; low viscosity = poor mucosal coating; low flow = reduced washing/buffering; low buffer capacity = inability to neutralize bacterial acids. This combination maximally favors caries development.
- C. High pH, high flow, and high buffer are all protective factors. This saliva is caries-resistant.
- D. High pH and high buffer capacity are protective — this saliva profile is caries-resistant, not cariogenic.
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