Gosset Molecular Classification
Bacteria, Microbiota
Disease Roles
Acidogenic Oral Bacteria Overview
Acidogenic oral bacteria are microorganisms within the oral cavity that metabolize dietary carbohydrates into organic acids, leading to a decrease in pH at the tooth surface and contributing to dental caries. Key species include Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus spp., and Bifidobacterium spp. Targeting these bacteria or modulating their activity is a central strategy for preventing or managing dental caries.
Mechanism of Action
Inhibition of bacterial growth and metabolism; disruption of biofilm formation; reduction of acid production
Biological Functions
Fermentation of dietary carbohydrates
Production of organic acids
Biofilm formation
Nutrient acquisition
Disease Associations
Dental caries
Periodontal disease (indirectly)
Safety Considerations
- Antimicrobial resistance
- Disruption of oral microbiome
- Potential for off-target effects
Interacting Drugs
Chlorhexidine
Fluoride
Antimicrobials (general)
Associated Biomarkers
| Biomarker |
|---|
| Plaque pH |
| Salivary bacterial counts |
| Acid production rate |
| Proportion of acidogenic species in oral microbiome |