March 13, 2023
Fermentation of carbohydrates presents in a food by oral bacteria results in a decrease in the pH of plaque and demineralization of enamel and finally formation of dental caries. Streptococcus mutans (S.mutans) is considered to be the principal bacterium causing tooth decay in humans. Glucosyltransferases (GTFs) from Streptococcus mutans bacteria play critical roles in the development of virulent dental plaque (ferment carbohydrates that decrease pH of plaque leading to tooth enamel demineralization), which provides an ideal site for colonization by microorganisms and is involved in the development of dental cavities.