Effect of multiple dental floss-SnF2 treatment on Streptococcus mutans in interproximal plaque.

Samples of dental plaque obtained from the interproximal tooth surfaces of seven young men showed considerable variation in the prevalence and anatomic site distribution of the potentially cariogenic microorganism S mutans. Multiple application of 10% SnF2 topical solution and saline solution delivered to interproximal test sites with dental floss were evaluated as short-term measures for eliminating S mutans from these surfaces. A greater overall reduction in the number of positive S mutans sites was observed for the SNF2-treated sites than the saline solution-treated sites. Long term studies are required to evaluate the effect of the treatments on the incidence of dental caries.