Which deficiency is most closely associated with an increase in dental caries?

Fluoride deficiency is most closely associated with an increase in dental caries. Fluoride is a mineral that plays a crucial role in dental health, as it helps to strengthen tooth enamel and makes teeth more resistant to decay. When fluoride is available, it can integrate into the structure of developing teeth and also contribute to the remineralization process of teeth that have already started to decay. This protective effect against caries is particularly significant during childhood when permanent teeth are developing.

Without adequate fluoride, individuals are more susceptible to dental caries due to the increased likelihood of enamel damage and a decreased ability to remineralize teeth after acid attacks from bacteria in the mouth. This is why communities that fluoridate their water supplies generally see lower rates of dental caries compared to those that do not.

In contrast, deficiencies in selenium, copper, or calcium do not have the same direct and specific impact on dental caries as fluoride does. While calcium is important for overall bone and tooth health, and its deficiency can affect dental structure over time, it is fluoride that specifically targets the prevention of caries through its effects on enamel.