INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) Practice Exam

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Which gram-positive cocci is responsible for causing enamel caries?

  1. Streptococcus mutans

  2. Streptococcus sanguinis

  3. Streptococcus oralis

  4. Staphylococcus aureus

The correct answer is: Streptococcus mutans

Enamel caries, or tooth decay, is caused by Streptococcus mutans. Streptococcus sanguinis, Streptococcus oralis, and Staphylococcus aureus are all gram-positive cocci, but are not responsible for causing enamel caries. Streptococcus sanguinis and Streptococcus oralis are commonly found in the oral cavity, but they do not produce acid like Streptococcus mutans does, which can lead to tooth decay. Staphylococcus aureus is typically found on the skin and mucous membranes, and is not known to cause enamel caries. Therefore, the correct answer is Streptococcus mutans.