HEALTH: This Vaccine could Prevent Dental Cavities

Scientists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences are working on a vaccine that may be able to prevent dental cavities.

Cavities are caused by acid from the bacteria, Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), which then dissolves the hard enamel of the tooth.

The scientists combined S. mutans with proteins to create a vaccine to ward against the bacteria, similar to the development of a flu shot. Earlier tests caused unwanted inflammation but the current mice and rat studies have shown progress and fewer inflammatory responses.

When testing the vaccine, the mice without cavities showed a 64.2% prevention rate and those with cavities already had 53.9% healing rate.

Cavities affect 60-90% of school age children and still many adults. While in some countries, dental access is a matter of insurance and getting over fear of dentists, other countries have no access to proper dental hygiene

Before the vaccine can be used and tested on humans, however, the researchers need to ensure that even low inflammatory responses won’t occur, particularly in the lungs, liver, kidney and cardiovascular system.

The vaccine wouldn’t be a replacement for normal dental hygiene — the mouth has other bacteria, some of which can cause cavities and other dental issues, and the vaccine doesn't cause fresh breath. So you’ll still have to remember to lie about flossing at your next dentist appointment.

NYDAILY