What has been the primary strategy to combat dental caries since the 1950s?

The primary strategy to combat dental caries since the 1950s has been the use of fluoride. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that, when applied to the teeth, strengthens the enamel and makes it more resistant to the acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. This has been supported by extensive research demonstrating the effectiveness of fluoride in reducing the incidence of caries.

Fluoride can be delivered through various means, such as community water fluoridation, toothpaste, mouth rinses, and professional dental treatments. Its effectiveness, especially in children, has led to a significant decline in caries rates in populations where fluoride is properly utilized.

While regular dental check-ups, dietary modifications, and antibiotic therapy play important roles in overall oral health and can contribute to caries prevention, they have not been as singularly impactful as fluoride in the systematic reduction of dental caries observed since the mid-20th century.