Washing Away Tooth Decay
January 24, 2012 | Terry Sharrer
The lion’s share of the $70b Americans spend on dental care goes to cavity prevention and repair, and for many years, microbiologists have imagined a vaccine to deal with tooth decay. Short of the vaccine, however, a microbiologist at UCLA’s School of Dentistry has developed a mouth rinse that specifically targets the Strepotoccus mutans that is the leading pathogen of cavities. The peptide in this solution does not inhibit other organisms in the mouth, and is the first drug since fluoride. Extensive clinical trials begin this March. MORE
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Tooth decay is preventable. Tooth decay is brought on by specific oral germs that convert glucose substance left in your mouth to generate an acid, which may tenderize one’s teeth. Babies are at high risk for tooth decay for a simple reason – many children and adolescents are usually lax in their own oral hygiene habits. Proper brushing and also flossing routines combined with regular dental visits help keep tooth decay out. A low-sugar diet also assists in keeping tooth decay away.