Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania and the University of North Carolina have made a surprising discovery that could change how we understand and prevent tooth decay. They found that a type of bacteria called Selenomonas sputigena, which was previously only linked to gum disease, also plays a major part in causing cavities.
For years, scientists believed that Streptococcus mutans was the main culprit behind tooth decay. This well-known bacteria sticks to the surface of teeth, forming a sticky layer called plaque. It then turns sugar from our food into acid, which damages the outer layer of our teeth—called enamel—leading to cavities.
However, this new study shows that S. sputigena works together with S. mutans to make tooth decay even worse. While S. sputigena cannot cause cavities on its own, it teams up with S. mutans and helps it grow and cause more damage.
The researchers made this discovery by studying the plaque from children who had tooth decay. They found that S. sputigena gets caught in the sticky structures made by S. mutans.
Once trapped, it grows rapidly and builds its own structures that protect both types of bacteria. These structures make it easier for S. mutans to survive and keep producing acid. This means tooth decay can happen faster and become more severe.
Until now, S. sputigena was only known for its role in gum disease, and it was usually found under the gum where there’s little or no oxygen. That’s why this finding was unexpected—scientists didn’t think it could survive or thrive on the tooth’s surface, where there is more oxygen.
The next step for the researchers is to figure out how this bacteria adapts to life in this different environment. This could help us better understand how bacteria work together in the mouth.
Tooth decay is one of the most common health problems in the world. It affects people of all ages, especially children. It happens when certain bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and create acid, which slowly breaks down the hard surface of the teeth.
Regular brushing and flossing can help remove plaque and prevent cavities, but some bacteria still manage to hide and cause damage.
This new discovery could lead to better ways to fight tooth decay. If scientists can figure out how to stop S. sputigenafrom working with S. mutans, they might be able to slow or even prevent cavities from forming.
This could mean new types of toothpaste, mouthwashes, or treatments that target both bacteria at once. It may also help us improve brushing techniques to better remove harmful bacteria before they cause damage.
The study was published in Nature Communications and shows how important teamwork between research institutions can lead to discoveries that affect public health. Understanding how different bacteria interact in our mouths can help us find smarter ways to protect our teeth.
If you’re interested in keeping your gums healthy too, other studies have shown links between gum disease and serious conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Taking care of your mouth isn’t just about preventing cavities—it’s a key part of staying healthy overall.
If you care about tooth health, please read studies about an important causes of tooth decay and gum disease, and common tooth disease that may increase risks of dementia.
For more health information, please see recent studies about mouthwash that may increase your tooth damage, and results showing this diet could help treat gum disease.
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