Which of the following is a tooth-related factor in caries etiology?

• A. Age, fluoride exposure, tooth morphology
• B. Oral clearance
• C. Salivary pH
• D. Frequency of eating

Answer: (A)

Tooth-related factors are characteristics of the tooth that influence its susceptibility to decay. Tooth morphology matters because the shape of the tooth, including pits and fissures, creates niches where plaque and acids can accumulate, making caries more likely in those areas. Age influences tooth vulnerability since erupting teeth can have immature enamel, and with time, wear or root exposure can change how easily decay develops. Fluoride exposure directly affects the tooth by making enamel more resistant to acid attack and promoting remineralization, so teeth that have benefited from fluoride are less prone to decay. In contrast, factors like how quickly saliva clears the mouth, the pH of saliva, or how often you eat are environmental or behavioral influences rather than intrinsic tooth properties.