With tooth decay in children increasing 28% over the last eight years, oral biologists have been searching for a remedy that contains elements that could protect teeth from cavities. An unlikely solution may have come in the form of candy. A substance called Cavistat apparently contains substances which neutralize the acid produced from sugar. Experts believe that the increase in cavities is a result of the increased consumption of sugars contained in processed foods and high fructose drinks consumed by many of today’s youth. Says Israel Kleinberg, DDS, PhD, and oral biologist at Stony Brook University,

“Saliva is a major protective against cavities.. It is as if you have a swimming pool. If you’ve got a neutral pH, you’ve got the ideal condition.”

The difference between Dr. Kleinberg and other oral biologists is that he then went out to develop a candy to fight cavities. This candy, called BasicMints, contains Cavistat, is fluoride free, and protects the teeth in two ways. First, it increases the pH level to neutralize acid. Second, the candy protects the minerals in tooth enamel. This gives the teeth a layer of protection against sticky candy. This candy creates a favorable environment for the mouth chemically and biologically by introducing arginine, an amino acid which is known to neutralize acids in the mouth when it comes in contact with bacteria.

It seems that cariostatic mints and gums may be a part of the near future, especially given early indications that BasicMints of Ortek Pharmaceuticals, accounted for a 62% drop in caries during preliminary testing.