Induced Alterations in the Reaction Capacity of Streptococcus Odontolyticus

Abstract

A mucoid variant of Streptococcus salivarius (S. odontolyticus) derived from the saliva of an individual afflicted with rampant dental caries digests milk in vitro. An extracted tooth placed in milk CaCO3 and incubated with S. odontolyticus evidenced superficial decalcification and a penetration and spreading of a destructive process between the enamel and dentin. In alkaline medium (potato CaCO3) the organism lost its mucoid characteristics.