'Keep 32' - Is it really the answer?

We have recently came across an article that supposedly will make teeth "cavity proof". The article is very interesting and it would be great to have a 'cure all' available for everyone with dental problems. However, there are many different cases and issues when it comes to dental needs that eliminating a dentist is not necessarily the appropriate thing to do. We must also keep in mind that when fluoride was first introduced, its intention was to 'stop cavities'. While it plays an important role in dental care, fluoride is not a panacea for cavities. This product could prove to be another great dental tool in prevention as well, however, it may be a bit far fetched to say that it will cure cavitites.


Article:

New chemical makes teeth 'cavity proof' - and could do away with dentist visits forever

• Chemical could be added to toothpastes in year's time
• Kills bacteria that erode teeth
• Single dose protects mouth for hours
• 'Keep 32' chemical could even be added to foods

A new chemical could make human teeth 'cavity proof' - and do away with the need for visits to the dentists forever.

The molecule has been called 'Keep 32' - after the 32 teeth in a human mouth.

The chemical was designed by dentists in Chile, and wipes out all the bacteria that cause cavities in just 60 seconds in tests.

The chemical could be added to any current dental care product, turning toothpaste, mouthwash and chewing gum into 'super cleansers' that could get rid of the underlying cause of tooth decay.

The chemical targets 'streptococcus mutans', the bacteria that turns the sugar in your mouth into lactic acid which erodes tooth enamel.

By exterminating the bacteria, 'Keep 32' prevents the damage to teeth before it happens.

Using a product containing the chemical keeps your teeth 'cavity proof' for several hours.

The product has been under test for seven years, and is now going into human trials.

It could be on the market in 14 to 18 months, say researchers José Córdoba from Yale University and Erich Astudillo from the University of Chile.