American children and adolescents who do not drink tap water, which is typically fluoridated, are much more likely to have tooth decay, according to a new study. However, the study confirms that those who drink tap water are more likely to have elevated levels of lead in their blood.

Researchers have evaluated a new dental material tethered with an antimicrobial compound that can not only kill bacteria but can also resist biofilm growth. In addition, unlike some drug-infused materials, it is effective with minimal toxicity to the surrounding tissue, as it contains a low dose of the antimicrobial agent that kills only the bacteria that come in contact with it.

One in 6 parents who did not receive advice from a health care provider believed children should delay dentist visits until age 4 or older — years later than what experts recommend — according to this month’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health.