Which of the following is not a function of saliva?

Contains fluoride to harden the tooth enamel
Moistens food and helps stick it together to make it easier to swallow
Begins the chemical breakdown of starches
Helps clean the mouth

The correct answer is A. Contains fluoride to harden the tooth enamel.

Saliva is a fluid produced in the mouth by the salivary glands. It helps to moisten food and make it easier to swallow. It also contains enzymes that begin the chemical breakdown of starches. Saliva also helps to clean the mouth by washing away food particles and bacteria.

Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. It is found in drinking water, toothpaste, and mouthwash. However, fluoride is not found in saliva.

Here is a more detailed explanation of each option:

  • Option A: Contains fluoride to harden the tooth enamel. This is not a function of saliva. Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. It is found in drinking water, toothpaste, and mouthwash. However, fluoride is not found in saliva.
  • Option B: Moistens food and helps stick it together to make it easier to swallow. This is a function of saliva. Saliva helps to moisten food and make it easier to swallow. It also contains enzymes that begin the chemical breakdown of starches.
  • Option C: Begins the chemical breakdown of starches. This is a function of saliva. Saliva contains enzymes that begin the chemical breakdown of starches.
  • Option D: Helps clean the mouth. This is a function of saliva. Saliva helps to clean the mouth by washing away food particles and bacteria.