Which components constitute salivary buffers that are decreased during pregnancy?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Prepare for the Special Patient Populations Test with our detailed quiz. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations for better understanding. Ace your exam with confidence!

Multiple Choice

Which components constitute salivary buffers that are decreased during pregnancy?

Explanation:
Salivary buffering relies mainly on bicarbonate and phosphate. These ions neutralize acids produced by plaque bacteria, helping keep the mouth’s pH closer to neutral. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can reduce the secretion of these buffering ions from the salivary glands, lowering buffering capacity and making the saliva less effective at neutralizing acids. Calcium and phosphate are more about enamel remineralization than buffering; sodium and chloride are general electrolytes; potassium and carbonate aren’t the primary buffering duo in saliva. So bicarbonate and phosphate are the salivary buffers that decrease during pregnancy.

Salivary buffering relies mainly on bicarbonate and phosphate. These ions neutralize acids produced by plaque bacteria, helping keep the mouth’s pH closer to neutral. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can reduce the secretion of these buffering ions from the salivary glands, lowering buffering capacity and making the saliva less effective at neutralizing acids. Calcium and phosphate are more about enamel remineralization than buffering; sodium and chloride are general electrolytes; potassium and carbonate aren’t the primary buffering duo in saliva. So bicarbonate and phosphate are the salivary buffers that decrease during pregnancy.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy