Bacteria Causing Caries: Which Ones And How To Prevent Them
Bacteria that cause tooth decay are microorganisms that aggregate in a biofilm called dental plaque. At first it looks like a white patina on the tooth, but over time it turns into cavities, creating a cavity that leaves the dentin exposed.
This process involves several phases in which the bacteria alternate: each phase corresponds to a predominant microorganism. Streptococcus mutans usually acts in the beginning , while in the more advanced stages Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium predominate .
Although various microorganisms are naturally present in the human oral cavity, the bacteria that cause caries are not present in healthy individuals. In people with perfect teeth, Streptococcus sanguinis actually predominates .
Caries
Caries consists in the destruction of dental tissues by acids produced by bacteria aggregated in dental plaque. The latter is a bacterial film that forms on the surface of the teeth. There are several types of caries:
- Crown caries : This is the most common type and affects the chewing surface. It occurs in both children and adults.
- Interdental : affects the spaces between the teeth and is not easy to spot.
- Root caries : occurs in adults, particularly in the elderly, and is due to gingival recession. This exposes the root of the tooth, which is devoid of enamel and therefore easily attacked.
- Recurring : form next to fillings, capsules or crowns placed to treat other caries.
Bacteria that cause tooth decay
The Streptococcus mutans is a bacterium present in greater quantities in dental plaque and with a high incidence in the early stages of caries. This microorganism is classified as a gram positive, facultative anaerobic and grows in low pH environments.
It is transmitted from individual to individual and adheres to the teeth and gums, forming small mounds. Usually, and particularly in cases of deep caries, they are accompanied by bacteria such as: S. salivarius, S. parasanguinis and S. constellatus . It is possible to prevent its proliferation with healthy dental hygiene habits.
In some cases S. mutans is not present, but S. sobrinus, S. oralis and S. salivarius are . When the caries is already formed, it is common to find the presence of Lactobacillus bacteria of various types, with a predominance of L. gasseri and L. ultunensis .
Other bacteria
Among the bacteria that cause caries we also find Actinomyces , present above all in many cases of root caries. Their role in the onset and course of the disorder, however, is still unclear to date. This bacterium is one of the first to colonize the baby’s mouth.
The Bifidobacterium , however, are anaerobic bacilli that are grouped in the form of a branch and are generally present healthy intestinal apparatus. In several cases the presence of B. denteum, S. inopinata (B. inopinatum) and P. denticolens (B. denticolens ) has been found in the most advanced stages of caries.
Finally, Prevotella is another anaerobic bacillus often present in the oral cavity. It is associated with periodontal disease and endodontic infections, but its role in tooth decay is not yet clear. The Veillonella , however, is extremely large in healthy oral cable.
How to fight the bacteria that cause tooth decay?
There are many factors that favor the growth of the listed bacteria. Chief among them is the excessive consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods, such as sugary drinks, sweets and industrial products. The more you consume, the greater the risk of developing tooth decay.
Foods rich in starch, such as potatoes or bread, also favor the development of tooth decay, as well as the way they are consumed. It is preferable to eat them at once and not in small portions during the day. Knowing how to combine them with other foods also has its importance.
Deep oral hygiene is essential. It is recommended that you brush your teeth a maximum of one hour after each meal and use dental floss, a fluoride mouthwash and, of course, go to the dentist twice a year.
