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jLiic iduuudumj^ iur me susceptibility to tooth decay was made on the children in one of the fourth grades. The children were given containers in whch to collect samples of their saliva. These specimen were sent tc| the State Laboratory for diagnosis. In this test, the patient’s saliva is examined to determine the number of lactobacilkis acidophilus, decay producing germs, present. From the laboratory analysis the actual number of bacteria which cause decay can be determined, and from this count an estimate of the patent’s susceptibility to decay can be determined.*
The most effective means of con* trolling dental caries at present is to renjove these germs from the mouth. These bacteria thrive on highly refined carbohydrates, particularly sugar. Therefore, the number of lactobacillus in saliva can be reduced by lowering carbohydrate and refined ' sugar consumption in the diet.* The State Director of Dental Health and a nutritionist have prepared lists of suggested diets which are low in carbohydrates. These lists are for distribution to the dentists and are designed to help them plan diets with their patients after the lactobacillus count has been determined. By eliminating all free sugars and carbohydrates in the diet, the count can be lowered, ,thus reducing the possiblity of new tooth decay, The length of time that a particular diet is followed varies in individual patents and is determined by the dentist.
The Director of Dentil* Health from the State Department of Health explained the results of the saliva test to the elementary teachers and principal in each school. Low carbohydrate diets were distributed to the
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