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When mouth microbes pal up, infection ensues

Benign oral bacteria provides energy boost for pathogen

Streptococcus gordonii

SUPER SIDEKICK This benign bacterium (Streptococcus gordonii) doesn’t usually cause disease. But new research suggests that it might help other dangerous bacteria become more powerful. 

Nature's Geometry/Science Source

By Laurel Hamers

- More than 2 years ago

Normally harmless mouth bacteria can be a bad influence. When they pal around with tooth- and gum-attacking microbes, they can help those pathogens kick into high gear.