Current Concepts in Preventive Dentistry
Prevention Step Two - Microbial Shift

Once S. mutans and lactobacilli bacteria are established in the oral cavity, the greater the risk for future caries to develop. Where biofilm (plaque) accumulates, the bacterial count is considered to be higher due to the retentiveness of plaque. Newly erupted teeth are deficient in mineral content (calcium and phosphate), making them more susceptible to bacteria. By introducing antimicrobial agents such as fluoride, the bacterial count will be reduced.