strep dental caries

streptococcus mutans

Viridans group of streptococcus spp

Most common resident in oral cavity

Forms biofilms and ferments sugars in mouth

Biofilms (plaque) to protect bacteria from drying and chemicals (brushing teeth)

Dental caries

Cavities

Most common infection in humans

Poor dental hygiene and high sugar or acidic foods increase activity of normal residents in the mouth

If infection (cavitie) reaches dentin(under enamel) or pulp(under dentin) root canal is required

Softening of enamel is an indicator of infection

Periodontal disease

Tooth socket becomes infected

Plaque calcifies (tartar/calculus) and irritates gums (gingiva) and causes bone respiration and tooth loss

Socket and gum line is receding

Trench mouth

Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis

Common in people who do not practice oral hygiene (druggies)

Form of chronic gingivitis