{"id":260,"date":"2024-12-05T04:09:42","date_gmt":"2024-12-05T04:09:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.evansstdental.com\/blog\/?p=260"},"modified":"2025-01-25T04:12:05","modified_gmt":"2025-01-25T04:12:05","slug":"protecting-your-smile-from-troublesome-cavity-causing-bacteria","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.evansstdental.com\/blog\/2024\/12\/05\/protecting-your-smile-from-troublesome-cavity-causing-bacteria\/","title":{"rendered":"Protecting Your Smile from Troublesome, Cavity-Causing Bacteria"},"content":{"rendered":"
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We\u2019re continuing to learn more and more about how bacteria interact with different parts of our body \u2013 and when it comes to dental health, things are certainly always interesting! Continue reading to learn a little more about some of the bacteria that are responsible for causing tooth decay and cavities, along with a few ways you can safeguard your pearly whites.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Types of Bacteria Cause Tooth Decay?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It was previously believed that the main microorganism responsible for dental decay was Streptococcus mutans<\/em>, which is commonly found inside the mouth. In fact, this troublesome bacterium is part of the reason why cavities are considered the most common health problem in the world. However, this is where Selenomonas sputigena<\/em>, another bacterial species, enters the picture. Previously associated with gum disease, this strain can work as a key partner with S. mutans<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A recent study analyzed samples of plaque from the teeth of 300 young children, half of whom had cavities. The researchers found that although S. sputigena<\/em> doesn\u2019t cause cavities on its own, it interacts notably with S. mutans<\/em> in a manner that greatly increases its ability to create cavities by providing it with added protection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Think of it like an amplifier for an electric guitar; on its own, the instrument isn\u2019t very loud when you strum it, but you can still hear it. However, when plugged into an amplifier, there\u2019s an enormous difference! With such supercharged bacteria within the mouth, the likelihood of serious cavities forming skyrockets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Can I Protect My Smile from Cavities?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In truth, you\u2019re going to have to battle cavity-causing bacteria throughout your entire lifetime \u2013 however, you will be well-equipped for it! While your saliva naturally contains enzymes that fight harmful bacteria, you should still strive to develop healthy oral hygiene habits. Consider the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n