Coating Helps Reduce Cavities in Kids

A recent study showed that applying a protective coating on kids’ teeth can help stop tooth decay from growing and causing problems.

More than 40% of U.S. children have tooth decay. Tooth decay is caused by sugar-fueled bacteria that make acid that damages the tooth surface. The bacteria live in a sticky, colorless film called plaque. Over time, decay can lead to holes in the teeth, called cavities. If not treated, decay can lead to pain, infections that can spread, and even tooth loss.

A research team studied 830 children between ages 1 and 6 with at least one cavity. At the start of the study, one of two coatings was applied to the children’s teeth. About half of the kids were treated with a coating containing silver diamine fluoride. It kills the bacteria that cause cavities and also makes teeth harder. The other half were given a similar coating but without any active ingredients. The coatings were reapplied six months later.

The kids were given check-ups at the start of the study. They also had follow-up exams three, six, and eight months later. The coating with silver diamine fluoride helped stop tooth decay in more than half the cavities. The other coating stopped about 17% of cavities.

“This is a very effective and safe treatment—even in children as young as 1,” says Dr. Margherita Fontana at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, who led the study.