Introduction to Acids, Bases, Buffers & Dental Products
Syllabus & Topics
- 1Acids, Bases and Buffers: Buffer equations (Henderson-Hasselbalch)
- 2Buffer Capacity and factors affecting it
- 3Buffered Isotonic Solutions: Measurement of tonicity, Calculations (Freezing point depression, NaCl equivalent)
- 4Major Electrolytes: Intra and Extracellular ions
- 5Replacement Therapy: NaCl, KCl, Calcium Gluconate, ORS
- 6Physiological Acid-Base Balance
- 7Dental Products: Dentifrices, Role of Fluoride, Desensitizing agents
- 8Compounds: Calcium carbonate, Sodium fluoride, Zinc eugenol cement
Learning Objectives
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is Buffer Capacity?
Buffer capacity is a measure of the ability of a buffer solution to resist changes in pH when small amounts of acid or alkali are added. It is maximum when pH = pKa.
Q2. Why is Fluoride used in dental products?
Fluoride ions replace hydroxyl ions in hydroxyapatite of tooth enamel to form fluorapatite, which is harder and more resistant to acid attack, thereby helping to prevent dental caries.
Q3. What are Desensitizing Agents?
Desensitizing agents (such as strontium chloride and zinc chloride) are used in toothpastes to reduce tooth sensitivity to hot or cold stimuli by blocking dentinal tubules.
Q4. What is ORS?
Oral Rehydration Salt (ORS) is a mixture of electrolytes (NaCl, KCl, sodium citrate) and dextrose, used to treat dehydration caused by diarrhea. It helps restore fluid and electrolyte balance in the body.
Q5. Calculate the isotonicity of 1% Boric Acid.
Using the freezing point depression method:
Freezing point of 1% w/v boric acid = –0.288°C
Freezing point of blood plasma = –0.52°C
Since –0.288°C > –0.52°C, the solution is hypotonic.