NOCTI Dental Assisting Practice Exam 2026 - Free Dental Assistant Practice Questions and Study Guide

The type of fluoride that is administered orally and swallowed is systemic fluoride. Systemic fluoride is ingested and becomes part of the bloodstream, allowing it to be utilized by the developing teeth in the body. This form of fluoride helps in the prevention of dental caries by strengthening the enamel of the teeth, making them more resistant to decay.

In contrast, topical fluoride is applied directly to the surface of the teeth (such as varnishes, gels, or rinses) and works locally rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream. Localized fluoride treatment targets specific areas of the teeth that may be more susceptible to decay, offering protective benefits directly where needed. Inhaled fluoride is not a standard method of fluoride administration in dental practices, making systemic fluoride the correct choice for this question.