What are Some Types of Bacteria in the Mouth?
Here are some examples of the sorts of bugs that can be found in the mouth. Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and similar related species cause tooth decay. The bacteria digest the sugars and starches in foods and produce acids which dissolve tooth enamel. Porphyromonas gingivalis are associated with periodontal (gum) diseases. Other types of mouth bacteria include Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus salivarius, and Lactobacillus sp. In August 2008 scientist at King’s College Hospital in London discovered an entirely new mouth baceria species. It’s called Prevotella histicola, nestles in the flesh lining the mouth, and is believed to contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. If you want to make a name for yourself and discover a new bacterium then the mouth is a pretty good place to start. Every drop of saliva contains millions of bacteria, and about half of them are unknown to science.
