The effect of an antibacterial solution on the microflora of human incipient fissure caries.

A technique for collecting various levels of plaque from incipient occlusal fissure caries was used to evaluate the antibacterial properties of a solution containing I2-KI, CuSO4, and ethanol. In comparison with control fissures (n = 6), the treated fissures (n = 9) showed a 98% difference in recoverable bacteria, with the killing of S. mutans, Actinomyces, and lactobacilli appearing to reflect the level of agent penetration.