Final answer:
Dental biofilm bacteria, particularly Streptococcus mutans, play a significant role in tooth decay. They break down sugars in the mouth, producing organic acids that dissolve the minerals of the tooth, leading to decay. Poor oral health can also contribute to the spread of bacteria throughout the body, causing inflammation and infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dental biofilm bacteria play a key role in tooth decay. When clean teeth come into contact with saliva, a layer of proteins and carbohydrates forms, attracting microbes and leading to the formation of a biofilm called plaque. Streptococcus mutans is the most important cariogenic species in these biofilms. The breakdown of sucrose by bacteria in the mouth produces glucose and fructose, which are used to make dextran and produce organic acids.
The organic acids, especially lactic acid, dissolve the minerals of the tooth, causing tooth decay. Over time, the plaque biofilm can become thicker and eventually calcify, forming dental calculus or tartar. Apart from the dental impact, poor oral health can also lead to the spread of bacteria like Streptococcus to other parts of the body, contributing to inflammation and infection.