
Tooth decay has long been associated with a few well-known culprits, most notably Streptococcus mutans, the bacteria often blamed for starting the process that leads to cavities. But now, researchers have uncovered a new microbial accomplice: Streptococcus sputigena (S. sputigena). This previously overlooked bacterium appears to play a surprising role in intensifying tooth decay, and its discovery is reshaping how scientists think about dental plaque and cavity formation.
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