Common Oral Bacteria Breaks Into Bloodstream

Researchers have found a common oral bacteria , Fusobacterium nucleatum , acts like a common thief picking locks to let itself and other bacteria into the bloodstream and infecting other body organs . This oral bacteria , one of hundreds in the mouth can open a door in the human blood vessel allowing itself and other bacteria to infiltrate the body and cause disease . This bacteria has been uncovered in brain abcesses and in infections in the lungs , liver , spleen and in the joints . Researchers have also found direct evidence linking this bacterium to preterm labor and fetal death and it can cross the placenta barriers that usually block disease causing agents . The most common way this bacteria invades the body is by either injuries in the mouth or through breaks in the gums lining the teeth , especially in periodontal (gum) disease .