Factors which May Be Associated with Caries Decrease in the USA:

• Fluoride appears to be the main reason.

• Dietary changes may also be a factor.

• Improved oral hygiene.

• Increase in antibiotic use.

• Decrease in mutans strep severity and its episodic nature may be altered.

• Combination of the above.

• Future trends in any of these factors may alter the current caries decrease.