Question

Tooth enamel is made up of calcium hydroxyapatite (a crystalline form of calcium phosphate). This chemical starts corroding in the mouth when the pH is ______.

Options

• 7

• 5

• 10

• 14

Answer 1

Tooth enamel is made up of calcium hydroxyapatite (a crystalline form of calcium phosphate). This chemical starts corroding in the mouth when the pH is 5.

Explanation:

1. The main component of tooth enamel, calcium hydroxyapatite, dissolves and destroys below 5.5 pH. 
2. Acidic meals, microorganisms, and sugar lower mouth pH. Tooth decay and cavities result from enamel demineralization at pH 5 or lower.
3. The mouth's pH is neutral, and a pH of 10 or 14 won't induce corrosion but may deposit minerals.