Oral streptococci (VGS)

Oral streptococci, primarily classified as Viridans group streptococci (VGS), are a large and diverse group of Gram-positive, alpha-hemolytic bacteria that are ubiquitous commensals of the human oral cavity (StatPearls, 2023). They play a fundamental role in the oral ecosystem by maintaining homeostasis and preventing the colonization of more pathogenic species, yet they are also the primary initiators of dental plaque and biofilm formation (Journal of Oral Microbiology, 2020). Species such as Streptococcus mutans are highly acidogenic, contributing significantly to the pathogenesis of dental caries by demineralizing tooth enamel (NIH, 2022). Beyond the mouth, these bacteria are clinically significant as opportunistic pathogens, frequently identified as the leading cause of subacute infective endocarditis following transient bacteremia (American Heart Association, 2021). Therapeutic management involves the use of beta-lactam antibiotics to inhibit cell wall synthesis, though increasing resistance patterns necessitate careful selection of antimicrobial agents (PubMed, 2021). The primary challenge in targeting oral streptococci lies in balancing the eradication of pathogenic strains while preserving the protective commensal population to avoid oral dysbiosis.

Other names

Viridans group streptococciViridans streptococciOral strepAlpha-hemolytic streptococci

Antibiotics such as beta-lactams (e.g., penicillin) inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), while glycopeptides like vancomycin prevent peptidoglycan cross-linking; antiseptic agents like chlorhexidine cause non-specific disruption of the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane.