The erupting first permanent molar--its place in stratified clinical field studies.

Erupting first permanent molars of 5 1/2 to 6 1/2 year-olds are eminently suited for the clinical testing of potential caries-inhibiting techniques. Due to the rapid onset of caries in these teeth, accurate monitoring of new materials/regimes can be instituted and meaningful data obtained within one year of trial commencement. In addition, by concentrating on this age-group and by also stratifying for socio-economic status, deciduous caries experience and three-month wide age-bands, different trials' data can be readily compared. A further benefit is that these most caries-prone teeth can be protected thus saving the need for block injections in young subjects and alleviating later orthodontic problems.