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The article presents a study which examines the usage of fluorescent antibody (FA) methods for analyzing samples of dental plaque. Problems related to the application of the procedure are mentioned, which include cross-reactions, the difficulties in gaining titers for FA staining that are adequate for the task, and the natural occurrence of native streptococcal polysaccharide antibodies. For the study, high-titered, serotype-specific Streptococcus mutans conjugates were prepared through the use of the diethylaminoethanol (DEAE)-cellulose-bacterial column method.

The article presents a report on the preparation of antisera to be used in the identification of certain dental plaque bacteria using fluorescent antibody techniques. The programs pursued by the National Caries Program, an initiative undertaken by the U.S. National Institute of Dental Research (NIDR), are described. The programs include collaborative research for the development of fluorescent antibody (FA) reagents, projects for the assessment of conjugates of S. mutans and the methods undertaken in their preparation, and intramural research on the improvement and utilization of conjugates.

Selected microbial components in dental plaque were determined for children in Biddeford, Maine and Colombia, South America. Using cultural methods, Streptococcus mutans was detected in 51.4% of the Colombian children and 63.3% of the Maine children. Serotype c was predominant in both populations. The greatest difference between the two groups occurred with serotypes d and g which were present in 25% of the Colombian children with S. mutans and were not detected in the Maine children. In the specimens examined with specific FA conjugates, Actinomyces was the predominant genus, present in all individuals and comprising an average of 52% of all cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports on tooth development and hypodontia in children. The article discusses children with missing teeth and molars, noting the roles of genetics, stress, and age in missing teeth. Information is also provided on the eruption of teeth, the development of permanent teeth, and wisdom teeth, or third molars.