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Dental caries is an infectious disease caused primarily by "Streptococcus mutans", characterized by acid demineralization of the enamel, which can progress to further breakdown of the more organic, inner dental tissue (dentin). The bacterial community would mainly consist of acidogenic and acid-tolerating species (e.g. "Mutans streptococci" and "lactobacilli"), while other species with relevant characteristics may also be involved.