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The Evolving Microbiome of Dental Caries
Grace Spatafora1, Yihong Li2, Xuesong He3
1Biology and Program in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT 05753, USA.
Microorganisms
|January 23, 2024
Summary
Dental caries, a global health issue, arises from dietary carbohydrates causing acidity and disrupting oral microbial communities. Targeting acid-producing bacteria like Streptococcus mutans with novel treatments shows promise for prevention.
Area of Science:
- Oral microbiology
- Dental public health
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Dental caries is a prevalent global oral health problem, particularly affecting low-income populations.
- Frequent carbohydrate intake increases oral acidity, disrupting the microbial community and leading to demineralization and cavities.
- Key acidogenic bacteria implicated in caries include Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of the oral microbiome in dental caries development.
- To investigate the potential of novel therapeutic strategies targeting cariogenic bacteria.
Main Methods:
- Utilized metagenomics and metatranscriptomics to analyze the caries-associated microbiome.
- Reviewed existing literature on caries prevention and treatment strategies.
Main Results:
- Identified specific bacterial species associated with caries, noting variations based on lesion site and progression.
- Metagenomics and metatranscriptomics provide insights into the active metabolic functions within carious lesions.
- Current fluoride treatments are effective but costly and less sustainable for high-risk individuals.
Conclusions:
- Dental caries is a complex multifactorial disease influenced by diet and microbial shifts.
- Targeting acidogenic bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, with innovative approaches like nanoparticles offers a promising avenue for caries prevention and treatment.
