Restorative & Materials · single question
Which toothpaste ingredient is the principal anticaries (decay-prevention) agent?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Sodium fluoride
- A. Correct. Sodium fluoride is the classic anticaries fluoride in toothpaste — it promotes remineralization and inhibits demineralization. (Stannous fluoride also prevents caries and adds antimicrobial benefit.)
- B. Silver diamine fluoride arrests caries but is a professionally applied topical, not a toothpaste ingredient.
- C. Triclosan is an antibacterial/anti-gingivitis agent, not the primary anticaries component.
- D. Calcium carbonate is an abrasive, not an anticaries agent.
Note: Stannous fluoride is also a valid anticaries fluoride; sodium fluoride is the most commonly cited decay-prevention agent in dentifrice.
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