iss1/3 Does Cariogenic Streptococcus mutans Play a Role in Cardiovascular Disease?

Disease? The link that exists between oral health and the entire well-being of the body is continuously becoming more emphasized. As illnesses such as cardiovascular disease become more prevalent, dentists and researchers have suggested that a link between the transfer of bacteria in the mouth into the blood stream plays a direct cause in onset of the disease in some patients. The American Dental Association has begun stressing the importance of preventive care techniques and also the importance of understanding the role the mouth plays in a multitude of processes that occur in the body. Streptococcus mutans, which is the main bacteria found in the mouth, will be reviewed, including its physical makeup and how it manages to find its way into the bloodstream. In addition, a specific form of cardiovascular disease will be discussed as well as the bacteria’s suggested mechanism for causing the disease