Q17 of 30 Page 34

A compound 'P' forms the enamel of teeth. It is the hardest substance of the body. It doesn't dissolve in water but gets corroded when the pH is lowered below 5.5. (a) Identify the compound 'P.' (b) How does it undergo damage due to the eating of chocolate and sweets? What should we do to prevent tooth decay?

It is given that A compound 'P' forms the enamel of teeth. It gets corroded and damaged when the pH in the mouth falls to 5.5 (acidic).

i. Our tooth is made up of calcium phosphate (P). It is the hardest substance of the body.


ii. Bacteria present in the mouth produce acids from food particles which remains in the mouth after eating. Due to the production of acid, the pH in the mouth falls to 5.5


iii. Toothpaste prevents tooth decay. The best way to prevent this is to clean the mouth by using toothpaste which can neutralize the effect of excess acid.


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