Salivary Buffering — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateBiomedical SciencesSalivary BufferingNDEB AFK

Which salivary component is primarily responsible for buffering acids in the oral cavity?

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Correct answer: D — Bicarbonate ions

Bicarbonate ions are the primary buffering system in stimulated saliva, neutralising acids produced by plaque bacteria and maintaining oral pH above the critical level for enamel demineralisation (~5.5). The phosphate buffer system is more important in unstimulated (resting) saliva. Reduced salivary bicarbonate (as in xerostomia) significantly increases caries risk due to impaired acid neutralisation.

Reference: Fejerskov & Kidd – Dental Caries: The Disease and Its Clinical Management, 3rd ed., 2015