Streptococcus mutans

Streptococcus mutans is a gram-positive bacteria that lives in the mouth, specifically on teeth. This bacteria grows optimally in the range of 18-40 degrees Celsius. First described by James Killian Clarke in 1924, the bacteria is the most common cause of tooth decay and cavities. 

Role in tooth decay
Along with Neisseria spp., various species of streptococci, including ``S. mutans``, and some fungi, form a biofilm known as dental plaque. S. mutans plays a major role in tooth decay, metabolizing sucrose into lactic acid.

 References 

category:Gram-positive bacteria