Streptococcus mutans

Streptococcus mutans is a bacteria that is naturally found in the mouth : on the teeth, gums and the famous dental plaque. Usually discreet, it becomes the star of dental caries as soon as there is a little too much sugar around... 🍬

🔬 This round bacterium (coccus) forms pairs or small chains (hence the name Strepto), but be careful, it is not part of the diplococci like Neisseria gonorrhoeae. S. mutans is equipped with special enzymes that allow it to cling firmly to the enamel, transform sugars into acids, and create an acidic environment that it loves (it is acidogenic and aciduric !). Result: The acid attacks the enamel… and it's guaranteed to cause cavities ! But that's not all: it also produces a sticky biofilm (dental plaque) that traps even more bacteria and acids. A real microbial vicious circle!

🪥 To keep S. mutans at bay:
– Brushing 2x a day with fluoride toothpaste
– Dental floss to break up biofilms
– Limit sugars
– And of course: regular dental check-ups

💡 Good news: research is progressing on the development of vaccines or probiotics to limit the damage caused by this little acidophilus mutineer!

What if instead of your teeth, it clung to... your computer, notebook or water bottle ? 😄
In sticker form, Streptococcus mutans is as tenacious as it is adorable. Give it a place in your collection today at our shop!

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PUN: Tooth be told, you're in trouble!

PUN 2: Your mouth is my cavi-city!