enamel dentin periodontal ligaments molar pulp premolar permanent canine The teeth have two distinct cusps. Humans have two sets of teeth, their deciduous teeth and their teeth. Deciduous teeth fall out when the holding them into their bony socket are broken down. A toothache happens when a cavity reaches the of the tooth, because that is where the nerves are located. Not brushing your teeth well can lead to the gums receding, exposing the neck of the tooth where milk is not present.
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Tooth decay occurs as a result of the dissolving of tooth enamel Ca5(PO4)3OH(s), following this reaction pathway: Ca5(PO4)3OH(s) ↔ 5Ca+2(aq) + 3PO4–3(aq) + OH–1(aq) Write the equilibrium expression for the reaction for tooth decay. (1 mark) When the sugar ferments on the teeth, H3O+ is produced. Explain what happens next and why eating sugar is bad for your teeth. (2 marks) Taking calcium citrate supplements can strengthen the enamel on your teeth. Propose a mechanism by which this can happen. (2 marks)
Krishna G.
Teeth enamel is hydroxyapatite $\left[\mathrm{Ca}_{3}\left(\mathrm{PO}_{4}\right)_{3} \mathrm{OH}\right]$ When it dissolves in water (a process called demineralization), it dissociates as follows: $$\mathrm{Ca}_{5}\left(\mathrm{PO}_{4}\right)_{3} \mathrm{OH} \longrightarrow 5 \mathrm{Ca}^{2+}+3 \mathrm{PO}_{4}^{3-}+\mathrm{OH}^{-}$$ The reverse process, called remineralization, is the body's natural defense against tooth decay. Acids produced from food remove the $\mathrm{OH}^{-}$ ions and thereby weaken the enamel layer. Most toothpastes contain a fluoride compound such as $\mathrm{NaF}$ or $\mathrm{SnF}_{2}$ What is the function of these compounds in preventing tooth decay?
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