Effect of Dehydroacetic Acid and Tetracycline on Caries Activity and Its Transmission in the Rat

Abstract

Rats pretreated with tetracycline before being placed on a caries-test diet develop less caries than highly susceptible animals. This indicates some alteration of the cariogenic microflora. Rats fed a diet containing dehydroacetic acid (DHA) developed more active caries (mainly on the smooth surfaces) but transmitted no more activity. Caries activity of DHA fed animals was partially counteracted by tetracycline pretreatment. DHA may not act by increasing the level of the cariogenic microflora, but rather through some toxic effect on the host animal which creates conditions permitting caries activity in the oral cavity.