The erupting first permanent molar--its place in stratified clinical field studies.
Erupting first permanent molars of 5 1/2 to 6 1/2 year-olds are eminently suited for the clinical testing of potential caries-inhibiting techniques. Due to the rapid onset of caries in these teeth, accurate monitoring of new materials/regimes can be instituted and meaningful data obtained within one year of trial commencement. In addition, by concentrating on this age-group and by also stratifying for socio-economic status, deciduous caries experience and three-month wide age-bands, different trials' data can be readily compared. A further benefit is that these most caries-prone teeth can be protected thus saving the need for block injections in young subjects and alleviating later orthodontic problems.
D000818:Animals; D002417:Cattle; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004245:DMF Index; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003764:Dental Materials / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005459:Fluorides / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D008892:Milk; D008963:Molar; D010895:Pit and Fissure Sealants / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010919:Placebos; D012923:Social Class; D013607:Tablets; D014078:Tooth Eruption
D003764:Dental Materials; D010895:Pit and Fissure Sealants; D010919:Placebos; D013607:Tablets; D005459:Fluorides