title: A potential model for the interaction of enamel fluoride and plaque in the development of dental caries.
abstract: A model relating caries to surface enamel fluoride and plaque has been derived by exploratory data analyses. Since the model was obtained a posteriori, it is best viewed in qualitative terms as a hypothesis for future testing. The model prompts a re-evaluation of expectations relative to the effects of surface enamel apatitic fluoride, and a consideration that the effectiveness of a given measure of fluoride may vary as a function of inherent challenge. Thus, further studies are needed, aimed at quantifying the parameters of resistance and challenge, and characterizing the relationship between them.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D004245:DMF Index; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000209:etiology*; D003733:Dental Caries Susceptibility; D003743:Dental Enamel / Q000032:analysis*; D003773:Dental Plaque / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005459:Fluorides / Q000032:analysis* / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D009911:Oral Hygiene Index
chemical_list: D005459:Fluorides