Blood lead levels lower, but tooth decay higher in children who do not drink tap water

American children and adolescents who do not drink tap water, which is typically fluoridated, are much more likely to have tooth decay, according to a new study. However, the study confirms that those who drink tap water are more likely to have elevated levels of lead in their blood.

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New dental material resists plaque and kills microbes

Researchers have evaluated a new dental material tethered with an antimicrobial compound that can not only kill bacteria but can also resist biofilm growth. In addition, unlike some drug-infused materials, it is effective with minimal toxicity to the surrounding tissue, as it contains a low dose of the antimicrobial agent that kills only the bacteria that come in contact with it.

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Lack of Guidance May Delay a Child’s First Trip to the Dentist

One in 6 parents who did not receive advice from a health care provider believed children should delay dentist visits until age 4 or older — years later than what experts recommend — according to this month’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health.

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