ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

Which mineral stimulates bone formation and inhibits or even reverses dental caries?

1. Iodine

2. Iron

3. Fluoride

4. Chromium

The correct answer is: Fluoride

Fluoride is renowned for its significant role in dental health and bone formation. It has been shown to stimulate the activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation, thereby promoting the development of strong bones. In terms of dental health, fluoride has the unique ability to enhance the remineralization of tooth enamel. This means that it can not only help to prevent dental caries, or cavities, but can also reverse early stages of decay by facilitating the incorporation of minerals back into the enamel structure. This process reduces the solubility of enamel and diminishes the chances of further decay. Iodine, while essential for thyroid function, does not have a direct impact on bone formation or the prevention of dental caries. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and supports overall energy metabolism but does not play a notable role in bone health or dental caries reversal. Chromium is primarily known for its role in glucose metabolism and improving insulin sensitivity and shares no direct relevance in stimulating bone formation or addressing dental cavities. Thus, fluoride's dual capacity to aid in both bone health and dental preservation is what makes it the correct choice in this context.