Caries preventive effect of wild tea (tsaang-gubat) among school children.

A 3-year study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of wild tea (tsaang-gubat) as a caries preventive agent among schoolchildren in two elementary schools. The experimental group drank one cup of tea daily for 17 months. Tea drink was prepared by boiling for 30 minutes, fresh tea leaves from the school garden. Results showed that wild tea is an effective caries preventive agent. A significant decrease of 75.67% in caries incidence was observed highest in the mesial and occlusal surfaces. Increase in caries incidence in the third year was due to irregular drinking sessions and decrease in fluoride content of tea. Wild tea (tsaang-gubat) drink is acceptable to the pupils even with less sugar, costs cheap and is readily available.