Imagine no more cavities. The end of tooth decay may be in sight. Scientists from Yale University and the University of Chile have discovered a molecule that kills the bacteria that cause dental cavities. The bacteria called Streptococcus Mutans is common in everyone’s mouth and it turns sugar into an acid that damages tooth enamel.

Jose Cordova of Yale and Erich Astudillo from Chile named the newly discovered molecule Keep 32 in reference to the 32 teeth in the adult mouth. They hope the molecule can be incorporated into  mouthwash or lozenge form which would kill the bacteria in about a minute.

About 73% of all people worldwide have cavities and dental caries is the most common childhood health problem. This research is aimed at reducing that number. Previously researchers at UCLA’s College of Dentistry had developed a mouthwash that eliminated almost all the decay causing bacteria over a 4 day period. No products based on this research have come to market yet.

Until we can effectively eliminate Streptococcus Mutans (without killing off the good bacteria in our mouths) we will have to rely on old-school prevention measures like brushing, flossing and getting regular cleanings.

Tooth decay used to mean an ugly mercury amalgam filling. StoneRidge Dental Care only uses tooth colored fillings. We are proud to be a mercury-free office. Remember that regular checkups enable us to catch tooth decay early!

To schedule your appointment or to learn more about cavity prevention please contact Dr. Mark Levy in Columbus, OH at 614-476-6696 today.