The influence of gross caries removal and temporary filling of dental caries with a zinc oxide eugenol cement on the level of mutans streptococci in saliva.

The influence of gross caries removal and temporary filling of dental caries with a zinc oxide eugenol cement on the salivary level of mutans streptococci (MS) was studied in 14 children, 6 to 8 years of age. Forty-eight hours after filling all cavities, there was a significant decrease in the level of these cariogenic microorganisms. However, after 30 days, the salivary level of mutans streptococci was similar to that detected initially.