Fluoride ions can replace hydroxyl ions in the hydroxyapatite crystal lattice of teeth.This fluoridated hydroxyapatite,or fluorapatite,is more soluble and makes the tooth less resistant to demineralization.

Question

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The first statement is true; the second is false.Fluorapatite,the fluoridated hydroxyapatite is a less soluble structure that makes teeth more resistant to demineralizing acids.Additionally,fluorapatite enhances remineralization when a tooth is subject to the caries process.When small pits develop in the enamel,fluoride is believed to promote deposition of calcium phosphate to remineralize the enamel surface.

Fluoride Ions Can Replace Hydroxyl Ions in the Hydroxyapatite Crystal