The effect of iron salts on experimental dental caries in the hamster

Abstract

Albino hamsters were infected with Streptococcus mutans and given different concentrations of ferrous sulphate or ferric chloride as an addition to the diet or to the drinking water. In some groups, the iron compounds were administered topically. All groups of animals receiving the iron developed less caries than infected control groups. The iron compounds reduced plaque formation but also caused brown to black staining of the tooth surface.