What medications are available for preventing dental caries?

Dec 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

Medications commonly used for preventing dental caries include fluoride toothpaste, sodium fluoride solution, stannous fluoride solution, chlorhexidine mouthwash, and silver nitrate solution. Fluoride toothpaste contains fluoride that strengthens the tooth enamel against acid attack, promotes enamel remineralization, and inhibits the growth of cariogenic bacteria in the mouth. Regular use during daily brushing forms a protective film, reducing the likelihood of tooth erosion, making it a fundamental medication for caries prevention.

Medications commonly used to prevent dental caries include fluoride toothpaste, sodium fluoride solution, stannous fluoride solution, chlorhexidine mouthwash, and silver nitrate solution. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Fluoride Toothpaste: The fluoride component strengthens the enamel's resistance to acid, promotes enamel remineralization, and inhibits the growth of cariogenic bacteria in the mouth. Regular use during daily brushing forms a protective film on teeth, reducing the likelihood of tooth erosion. It is a fundamental medication for preventing dental caries.

2. Sodium Fluoride Solution: This works through topical application or mouth rinsing. Fluoride ions penetrate into the tooth enamel, enhancing the tooth’s resistance to decay. It is suitable for individuals during tooth development stages. Regular use can reduce the risk of developing caries, but dosage must be controlled under professional guidance.

3. Stannous Fluoride Solution: Offers both caries-preventive and antibacterial effects. It not only enhances acid resistance of teeth but also suppresses metabolism of cariogenic bacteria, reducing the production of acidic substances. Additionally, it helps alleviate gingival inflammation and is ideal for individuals with poor oral hygiene.

4. Chlorhexidine Mouthwash: Primarily functions by inhibiting bacterial growth in the mouth and reducing plaque formation, thereby indirectly preventing caries. It is especially beneficial for individuals with accompanying periodontal inflammation. However, prolonged use may lead to tooth staining, so usage duration should be appropriately managed.

5. Silver Nitrate Solution: Possesses bactericidal and astringent properties that can eliminate cariogenic bacteria in the mouth and has some restorative effect on early-stage caries. It is suitable for initial caries without obvious structural damage. Concentration must be strictly controlled during application to avoid irritation to oral mucosa.

Preventing dental caries should not rely solely on medications. It requires combining proper daily oral care practices such as brushing teeth twice a day, rinsing after meals, undergoing regular dental check-ups and cleanings, limiting sugary food intake, and maintaining a clean oral environment to effectively reduce the risk of developing caries.

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