This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. Introduction: Early Childhood Tooth Decay is the most prevalent chronic childhood disease. Streptococcus mutans has been implicated as a primary bacteria responsible for dental decay. Transmission of the bacteria from mother to child occurs during a narrow time interval early in the child?s life. Early interception of S. mutans transmission can reduce or possibly eliminate dental caries. We hypothesize that a combination of xylitol and chlorhexidine will most effectively block transmission of S. mutans from the mother and that this reduction in transmission will result in the greatest reduction of dental caries development in the child. To test this hypothesis mother-child pairs will be randomly assigned to five experimental groups. The primary comparison of the proportion of children experiencing colonization among treatment groups and the primary analysis of caries experience among the groups will be documented. The long-term goal is to identify an alternative therapy for early intervention of dental caries. The following progress has occurred during year 1: Objective: To initiate the project through the purchase of equipment and supplies, renovations of research space, hiring of research personnel, enrolling for a pilot study for compliance, and participate in an intensive training program. Methods: Participate in COBRE programs, use COBRE resources, receive structured mentoring, and initiate the scientific protocol through a pilot study. Results: All equipment and supplies for year one has been ordered. A Research Associate II (100%) and Dental Assistant II (100%) were hired. A small pilot study has been initiated to have subjects try interventions and observe long-term compliance, recommendation by EAC. The investigator has received continuing mentoring: through monthly journal clubs, grant seekers presentations, monthly meetings with Primary Mentors, and monthly/quarterly meetings with primary and secondary Mentors, respectively. Discussion: The investigator has received enthusiastic support from the EAC, COBRE PI?s and Mentoring Team. Recruitment, screening, and pilot study are continuing.
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