Suppression of Streptococcus mutans in the Mouths of Humans by a Dental Prophylaxis and Topically-applied Iodine

P. W. Caufield, R. J. Gibbons

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

A prophylaxis followed by three topical applications of an iodine-potassium iodide solution significantly reduced the levels of Streptococcus mutans in fissure and approximal plaques and in saliva. Reductions persisted 20-24 weeks after treatment in salivary and approximal samples. A prophylaxis alone exerted a small and temporary reduction of S. mutans in occlusal fissure plaque, but did not reduce the levels of this organism in approximal plaque or in saliva. A significant relationship existed between the levels of S. mutans in saliva and the proportions of this organism in plaque. The dorsum of the tongue does not appear to constitute a significant reservoir for S. mutans following disinfecting procedures.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1317-1326
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of dental research
Volume58
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 1979

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Dentistry

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