Effect of a Topically Applied 3 % Vancomycin Gel on Streptococcus mutans on Different Tooth Surfaces

Abstract

A 3% vancomycin gel was applied for ten minutes to the teeth of 10- to 12-year-old children using custom-fitted trays. Treatment was once a day for five consecutive days. Significant suppression of Streptococcus mutans was found in sound and carious fissures one week after treatment, with a decline in the oral hygiene index. Response to treatment was the same in subjects with and without large, open, carious lesions.