Caries prevention

Caries prevention describes the multifaceted effort to avoid the initiation and progression of dental caries (tooth decay). This is not a single molecular or protein target, but encompasses a variety of preventive measures—such as fluoride application, antibacterial agents, nanoparticles, and small-molecule inhibitors—that disrupt biofilm formation, prevent demineralization of tooth enamel, or inhibit bacterial virulence mechanisms, especially in Streptococcus mutans. Advances in materials like nanoparticles, bioactive hydrogels, and targeting bacterial enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinase-3 are expanding options for caries risk reduction. Most current therapies focus on modifying microbial composition, reducing acid production, and reinforcing enamel[1][2][3][4][5].

Other names

Dental caries preventionCavity preventionTooth decay prevention

Inhibition of enamel demineralization (fluoride); Disruption of biofilm formation (e.g. small-molecule inhibitors target S. mutans biofilm synthesis)[2]; Antibacterial activity (antimicrobials/nanoparticles)[1][2]; Inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase-3 to reduce dentin matrix degradation[4]