Photo by V. Miller
June 27, 2007
Calcium and Tooth Decay
What Are the Effects of the Calcium Phosphate Ion Concentrations of Acidic Plaque Fluid on Tooth Demineralization?
Mackensie Quade, 14, New Brighton, Minn.
Discovery Channel "Atlas" Award, Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge, 2006
Project background: Mackensie became interested in what factors contribute to tooth decay after seeing commercials for chewing gums that claimed to protect teeth from cavities. She wondered whether solutions with calcium ions, phosphate ions, or both might protect teeth that have been exposed to an acidic solution that's similar to the saliva of someone who has consumed sugar. Both calcium and phosphate ions are present in saliva and are known to replenish mineral reserves in teeth.
Tactics and results: Mackensie used four loose teeth for her experiment. She exposed each tooth to a different acidic solution: one solution containing calcium ions, another with phosphate ions, a third with calcium and phosphate ions, and a fourth with no calcium or phosphate ions.
 |
| Photo by V. Miller |
Mackensie found that teeth in the solution with calcium and phosphate ions were protected from demineralization. The teeth soaked in the three other solutions lost significant amounts of minerals.
To get science project ideas and expert advice from Science Buddies, go to www.sciencebuddies.org/mentoring/areas_of_science.shmtl.
Read the latest science fair news
Get a science fair tip
Browse a list of science fair topics
Talk Back:
Do you have any comments about this ScienceFairZone? Send them
to us using the form below.
|
SNK RSS Feed 
