Babies Oral Care Can Prevent Future Cavities

A recent study performed by scientists from the University of Illinois confirms the presence of bacteria associated with early childhood caries (ECC) in infant saliva.  Now there is one more reason for parents to pay more attention to the oral health of their children.

Early childhood caries is a virulent form of caries, which is more often known as tooth decay or a cavity.  In accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay is the most widespread infectious disease among U.S. children.

New Suspect in Early Tooth Decay

INTELIHEALTH - Boston-area researchers may have found a new culprit in early tooth decay.

We all know that cause of tooth decay is evidently a species of bacteria called Streptococcus mutans, which eats sugars and releases acid, leading to the tooth enamel dissolving that in result leads to a cavity. You might have heard about a couple of other species of bacteria associated with cavity formation, as well.

But a new study claims that even when Streptococcus mutans is not present, the risk of cavities still exists, as another species named Scardovia wiggsiae can lead to its formation.