Science WebQuests
Vaccinations
Vaccination is the means of producing immunity against pathogens by the introduction of live, killed, or altered antigens. They work by stimulating the body to produce antibodies against more dangerous forms of the bacteria or virus.
Vaccination was used in ancient times in China, India, and Persia, and was introduced in the West in 1796 by Edward Jenner. Jenner demonstrated that rubbing or scraping the cowpox virus (the term vaccine comes from the Latin vacca, cow) into the skin produced only a local lesion but was sufficient to stimulate the production of antibodies that would defend the body against the more virulent smallpox.
Vaccines have eradicated smallpox worldwide, and prevents such diseases as cholera, rabies, and typhoid fever.
Oral Health
Scientists have discovered that bacteria normally found in our mouths can invade heart tissue, causing a dangerous and sometimes lethal infection and disease of the heart known as endocarditis.
S. mutans is a bacterium best known for causing cavities. The bacteria reside in dental plaque -- an architecturally sophisticated goo composed of an elaborate molecular matrix created by S. mutans that allows the bacteria to inhabit and thrive in our oral cavity. There, they churn out acid that erodes our teeth.
Normally, S. mutans confines its mischief to the mouth, but sometimes the bacteria can enter the bloodstream. This can happen after a dental procedure or even after a vigorous bout of flossing. There, the immune system usually destroys them, but occasionally -- within just a few seconds -- they travel to the heart and colonize its tissue, especially heart valves. The bacteria can cause endocarditis -- inflammation of heart valves -- which can be deadly. Infection by S. mutans is a leading cause of the condition.
Until more research is done and a screening or preventive tool is in place, the usual advice for good oral health still stands for everyone.
No matter what types of bacteria a person has in his or her mouth, they should do the same things to maintain good oral health. They should brush and floss their teeth regularly -- the smaller the number of S. mutans in your mouth, the healthier you'll be. Use a fluoride rinse before you go to bed at night. And eat a healthy diet, keeping sugar consumption to a minimum.
