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Dental Health Alert: Newly Discovered Bacteria Linked to Tooth Decay Uncovered by Scientists

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• July 6, 2023July 30, 2023
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Dental Health:

A team of scientists in the United States has made an unexpected breakthrough in understanding tooth decay. They have found that a certain type of bacteria, which was previously associated only with gum disease, can actually contribute significantly to the development of cavities. This discovery challenges the belief that Streptococcus mutans, a bacteria known for causing plaque and producing acid, is solely responsible for tooth decay.

In their study published in the journal Nature Communications, the researchers revealed that Selenomonas sputigena works in partnership with S. mutans, greatly increasing its ability to create cavities.

“This finding took us by surprise and provides us with new insights into cavity development. It also highlights potential targets for preventing cavities in the future and reveals novel mechanisms of bacterial biofilm formation that could be important in other medical contexts,” explained Professor Hyun (Michel) Koo DDS, from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine.

Tooth decay, or dental caries, is considered the most common chronic disease affecting both children and adults worldwide. It occurs when acid-producing bacteria, including S. mutans, are not properly removed through brushing and other oral care methods, resulting in the formation of a protective layer called plaque on the teeth.

Inside the plaque, these bacteria consume sugars from food and drinks, turning them into acids. If the plaque remains on the teeth for a long time, these acids begin to erode the enamel, leading to the formation of cavities.

For the study, the scientists collected plaque samples from the teeth of 300 children aged 3-5 years, half of whom had cavities. They conducted various advanced tests on the samples, such as analyzing the activity of bacterial genes, studying the biological processes involved, and even using microscopic imaging.

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To confirm their findings, the researchers further analyzed 116 plaque samples from 3 to 5-year-olds. The results demonstrated that S. sputigena, along with S. mutans, significantly contributes to the development of cavities. It was observed that S. mutans bacteria utilize sugar to create sticky structures called glucans, which are part of the protective plaque environment.

The researchers found something interesting. They discovered that a type of bacteria called S. sputigena, which has small parts that help it move on surfaces, can get stuck in a substance called glucans. When it gets stuck, S. sputigena quickly multiplies and forms special structures that look like honeycombs. These structures surround and protect another bacteria called S. mutans.

Through animal models, the researchers showed that this unexpected partnership leads to a substantial increase in acid production, significantly worsening the severity of cavities.

These findings reveal a more complex interaction between bacteria than previously thought and provide a better understanding of how childhood cavities develop. This understanding could eventually lead to improved strategies for preventing cavities. Professor Koo proposes a potential solution. He suggests that we can try to disrupt the protective superstructures created by S. sputigena using specific enzymes or by adopting more accurate and effective tooth-brushing techniques. This approach could help us improve oral hygiene and keep our teeth healthy.

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