Research & Science NEWS

Stopping Tooth Decay Before it Starts – without Killing Bacteria

2020-08-25

Stopping Tooth Decay Before it Starts – without Killing Bacteria

Oral bacteria are ready to spring into action the moment a dental hygienist finishes scraping plaque off a patient’s teeth. Eating sugar or other carbohydrates causes the bacteria to quickly rebuild this tough and sticky biofilm and to produce acids that corrode tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Scientists now report a treatment that could someday stop plaque and cavities from forming in the...