Streptococcus sanguinis and its role in your oral health

If you’re here, you’re probably keen to find out everything there is to know about Streptococcus sanguinis and how it affects your dental and oral health.

We’re going to tell you the most important facts about S. sanguinis. You’ll probably be surprised to learn that, unlike other bacteria such as S. sobrinus or S. mutans, S. sanguinis can be beneficial for your teeth, although there are some complexities involved.

Streptococcus sanguinis: facts and effects

S. sanguinis is a bacterium that forms part of the normal oral flora, particularly on the surface of the teeth and in saliva. Its main characteristics are:

• It colonises the teeth at an early stage, acting as one of the first lines of defence against harmful bacteria such as S. mutans.
• It produces hydrogen peroxide, which inhibits the growth of cariogenic bacteria.
• It contributes to the initial formation of dental plaque, although this can be beneficial if kept under control.

Unlike S. sobrinus, S. sanguinis is not highly acidogenic, meaning that it does not produce large amounts of lactic acid, which damages tooth enamel.

Why might it be good for your teeth?

Put simply, S. sanguinis competes with more harmful bacteria, occupying space and raw material that would otherwise be used by S. mutans or S. sobrinus. This reduces the risk of tooth decay and protects the enamel.

Although it forms part of the plaque, it’s an “initial plaque” that acts as a natural barrier and maintains a healthy microbial balance in the mouth.

How to maintain a healthy balance

Maintaining adequate levels of S. sanguinis is beneficial. Some strategies include:

• Regular oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing prevent the build-up of harmful plaque.
• A diet low in refined sugars: Reduces the growth of acid-producing bacteria such as S. mutans and S. sobrinus.
• Xylitol: Although S. sanguinis is not harmful, xylitol helps to control harmful bacteria and maintains a healthy oral environment.

In conclusion, S. sanguinis is a beneficial bacterium for your teeth, helping to maintain a healthy balance in the mouth and protecting it against more aggressive bacteria.