Team:UT Dallas/Project

Harmful bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, live in the mouth and convert sucrose into lactic acid and fructose/glucose. The lactic acid creates acidic conditions in the mouth, leading to tooth enamel decay. The fructose/glucose combination forms a sticky polysaccharide called dextran. This molecule is responsible for dental plaque and creates the optimal platform for populous colonies of bacteria on the surface of the teeth. Streptococcus mutans has been determined to be the primary contributor to dental plaque and cavities.