Restorative & Materials · single question
Which substance does NOT DIRECTLY affect REMINERALIZATION of enamel?
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Correct answer: D. Salivary immunoglobulin (IgA) — does NOT directly remineralize
✓ D) Salivary IgA does NOT directly affect remineralization.
Remineralization factors: Fluoride (converts hydroxyapatite to fluorapatite), salivary Ca²⁺ and PO₄³⁻ ions (directly deposit on demineralized enamel), salivary proteins (statherin, proline-rich proteins — stabilize calcium), saliva pH/buffering (neutralizes acid to allow remineralization), CPP-ACP (Recaldent), GC MI Paste. Salivary IgA: antibacterial (agglutinates bacteria for swallowing/clearance) but does NOT directly provide minerals to enamel. It has an INDIRECT role (reduces bacteria) but not a direct remineralization role. This distinction is tested.
Remineralization factors: Fluoride (converts hydroxyapatite to fluorapatite), salivary Ca²⁺ and PO₄³⁻ ions (directly deposit on demineralized enamel), salivary proteins (statherin, proline-rich proteins — stabilize calcium), saliva pH/buffering (neutralizes acid to allow remineralization), CPP-ACP (Recaldent), GC MI Paste. Salivary IgA: antibacterial (agglutinates bacteria for swallowing/clearance) but does NOT directly provide minerals to enamel. It has an INDIRECT role (reduces bacteria) but not a direct remineralization role. This distinction is tested.
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