Nickname: Strep mutans

Morphology: Gram-positive cocci in chains

Habitat: Strep mutans can stick to tooth surfaces and live in tiny cracks in teeth. It lives and grows in acid conditions where other bacteria cannot. It interacts with sugars in foods to create an acid environment which causes teeth to decay.

Disease or illness: Causes tooth decay and cavities

Who is at risk: Everyone with real teeth (not false teeth)

Prevention: Brush teeth at least two times a day – morning and bedtime; floss between teeth every day; eat healthy snacks that are low in sugar.

“When I visit someday, your teeth will decay”