Sugar Frequency vs Amount — ORE Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: D — Frequent sugar exposures increase caries risk more than the same sugar intake confined to meals
Explanation lettering: C = shown as A · D = shown as B · E = shown as C · A = shown as D · B = shown as E
A is correct. UK prevention guidance explains that every sugar intake causes a plaque-pH fall; repeated intakes create repeated demineralisation periods and may not allow adequate time for remineralisation. Therefore, sugars should be minimised and, where consumed, confined to meals rather than taken frequently between meals. B is incorrect because amount matters, but exposure frequency also matters. C is incorrect because fluoride reduces caries risk but does not remove the cariogenic effect of frequent sugar exposure. D is too absolute: bedtime sugar is particularly undesirable because salivary flow is low, but sugar can promote caries at other times. E is incorrect because sugar-free alternatives are not equally cariogenic.
Reference: Office for Health Improvement and Disparities and NHS England. Delivering better oral health: an evidence-based toolkit for prevention, Chapter 10: healthier eating, 2025. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/delivering-better-oral-health-an-evidence-based-toolkit-for-prevention/chapter-10-healthier-eating