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BMC Oral Health
Published in: BMC Oral Health 1/2018

Open Access 01-12-2018 | Debate

Are the mutans streptococci still considered relevant to understanding the microbial etiology of dental caries?

Authors: Jeffrey A. Banas, David R. Drake

Published in: BMC Oral Health | Issue 1/2018

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Abstract

The mutans streptococci were once the primary focus of research dedicated to understanding the etiology of dental caries. That focus has now shifted to an emphasis on the ecological balances and complexities within the entirety of the plaque microbiome. Within that framework there are considerable differences of opinion regarding the importance and relative contributions of the mutans streptococci. This article explores the basis for the various viewpoints, the limitations of current knowledge, and the confounders that make it difficult to arrive at a consensus.
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Metadata
Title
Are the mutans streptococci still considered relevant to understanding the microbial etiology of dental caries?
Authors
Jeffrey A. Banas
David R. Drake
Publication date
01-12-2018
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Oral Health / Issue 1/2018
Electronic ISSN: 1472-6831
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-018-0595-2

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