Omaha, NE--Dentists say there's all sorts of reasons why they're still seeing plenty of cavities in children and adults. It can be due to poor oral hygiene, lack of fluoride from drinking too much bottled water, genetics, an overgrowth of the bacteria in the mouth that causes cavities, or all of the above.
In fact, Dr. Christopher Stanosheck says for about ten to fifteen percent of the population, no matter what they do, cavities are going to happen.
But he says one of the most promising ways to fight tooth decay comes in a lollipop.
It's been developed by dentists at UCLA using licorice root extract--an ancient Chinese herb used for centuries for its antibacterial qualities.
"This particular lollipop has the minimum inhibitory microbiological concentration of licorice root. All that means is it has a specific amount to kill streptococcus mutans, the bacteria that causes cavities," relays Dr. Stanosheck.
The orange-flavored candy is sugar-free and is meant to be given out twice a day for 10 days. That dose is supposed to be enough to inhibit tooth decay for three to six months. According to the manufacturer, the candy needs to stay in the mouth for at least five minutes to kill the germs.
"I'm all for giving them the sucker," says mom, Stephanie Thiem. "Cavities run in our family."
Her three-year old daughter, Annabelle, seems to like the idea as well.
14-year old Tommy Volberding declares, "I would eat them every day...cause I don't want to sit in this chair." That's after finding out that he has two new cavities.
Dr. Stanosheck is quick to remind people, this does not take the place of regular brushing and flossing. "It is something to help out, a natural holistic way to help out someone who can't fight cavities as well as other people."
He also thinks it would be a great alternative for adults who chew ice, gum or smoke.
The cost runs about ten dollars for 20 lollipops and right now, you can only buy it through a dental office or through the manufacturer. Because it is an herbal extract, there is no requirement for FDA approval.
Reported by Carol Wang, cwang@action3news.com
http://www.action3news.com/Global/story.asp?S=8253126
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