Streptococcus sanguinis

Streptococcus sanguinis is a bacteria commonly found in the oral cavity.

Squamous epithelial cell with oral bacteria

Highlights

• It is a Gram-positive, nonmotile, non-spore forming cocci normally found in healthy human mouths.
• This microbe is also commonly found in dental plaque, which can then colonize dental cavities.
• S. sanguinis can sometimes enter the bloodstream when opportunity presents such as during dental cleanings.
• It can then colonize the heart valves, particularly the mitral and aortic valves
• It one of the most common cause of subacute bacterial endocarditis

Treatment

Aadministration of several weeks of penicillin and aminoglycoside antibiotics.

Prevention

Prior to dental procedures, oral surgeons often prescribe a short course of antibiotics to be taken a few days before to a few days after oral surgery.

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