{"id":458,"date":"2024-01-12T20:41:00","date_gmt":"2024-01-12T20:41:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.stephenscitydental.com\/blog\/?p=458"},"modified":"2024-02-20T20:41:27","modified_gmt":"2024-02-20T20:41:27","slug":"a-new-bacterium-that-causes-tooth-decay","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.stephenscitydental.com\/blog\/2024\/01\/12\/a-new-bacterium-that-causes-tooth-decay\/","title":{"rendered":"A New Culprit: Meet S. Sputigena, Tooth Decay Terror"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Brace yourselves for breaking news! In a recent study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania, a concerning discovery has been made in the realm of oral health. Researchers found a new bacterium that causes tooth decay. Meet Selenomonas sputigena, a strain of bacteria that works well with others, causing cavities. If you want to learn more about this dastardly foe and how your dentist<\/a> can help continue reading.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Is Selenomonas Sputigena?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The ongoing study of this bacterium has discovered that it may be the real cause of accelerated tooth decay. Previously, it was thought that Streptococcus mutans (the type of bacteria that cause strep throat) were responsible. However, with this discovery, dental researchers may have found a new avenue to explore for cavity prevention in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Does Bacteria Cause Cavities?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It may sound strange to think that the reason teeth decay is because of bacteria. However, this is precisely the case. As you eat throughout the day, small food particles are absorbed by natural bacteria that live in your mouth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When the food is broken down, it releases acid that slowly eats away at your tooth enamel. This process is accelerated when you consume large amounts of sugar or starch (bacteria’s favorite foods!) Once the acid breaks through your tooth enamel, you have a cavity!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Can I Protect Myself from Tooth Decay?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Though the discovery of Selenomonas sputigena may have changed things for dentists, thankfully it doesn\u2019t change much for you! The best way to protect yourself from tooth decay is still going to be excellent oral hygiene. Here are some tips to keep Selenomonas sputigena and their accomplices from ruining your teeth:<\/p>\n\n\n\n