All of the following statements regarding acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) are true except one. Which is the exception?

All of the following statements regarding acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) are true except one. Which is the exception?

• A. It mildly etches enamel to facilitate fluoride diffusion.
• B. It facilitates recrystallization of the enamel's apatite into fluoroapatite.
• C. When it is frequently used it may degrade glass ionomer restorations.
• D. It has no deleterious effects on porcelain crowns and veneers.

Answer: (D)

The statement that APF has no deleterious effects on porcelain crowns and veneers is the exception because, while APF is generally safe for use in many restorative materials, it can potentially affect the surface of porcelain. The acidic nature of APF can cause surface etching or degradation in vulnerable materials, such as porcelain, which may lead to compromised aesthetic qualities or structural integrity over time. Therefore, while APF is beneficial for teeth in terms of fluoride delivery, care must be taken when used on porcelain surfaces. In contrast, the other statements are true. APF is indeed known to gently etch enamel, a process that enhances fluoride penetration and efficacy. Furthermore, APF aids in the transformation of enamel’s hydroxyapatite into fluoroapatite, a more decay-resistant form of enamel. Lastly, while APF can have adverse interactions with glass ionomer restorations due to their sensitivity to acidity, this does not apply to porcelain, making option D the correct answer.

The statement that APF has no deleterious effects on porcelain crowns and veneers is the exception because, while APF is generally safe for use in many restorative materials, it can potentially affect the surface of porcelain. The acidic nature of APF can cause surface etching or degradation in vulnerable materials, such as porcelain, which may lead to compromised aesthetic qualities or structural integrity over time. Therefore, while APF is beneficial for teeth in terms of fluoride delivery, care must be taken when used on porcelain surfaces.

In contrast, the other statements are true. APF is indeed known to gently etch enamel, a process that enhances fluoride penetration and efficacy. Furthermore, APF aids in the transformation of enamel’s hydroxyapatite into fluoroapatite, a more decay-resistant form of enamel. Lastly, while APF can have adverse interactions with glass ionomer restorations due to their sensitivity to acidity, this does not apply to porcelain, making option D the correct answer.