A Cultural Study of Filamentous Bacteria Obtained from the Human Mouth

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Abstract
By the use of anaerobic methods and a variety of culture media a large number of filamentous bacteria were isolated from the mouth. 83 of these grew sufficiently well in subculture to permit study of their morphological and biological characteristics. 7 groups of organisms were distinguished. 6 of these groups were composed of organisms with distinct characteristics and the remaining group of heterogeneous types. Organisms similar to these of 2 groups have been described by previous investigators and types partially resembling a 3d type have also been reported. 4 of the groups of filaments were identified as Leptotrichia, one as a Fusiformis. Another group shared equally the characteristics of both genera.. Of all the groups, only one embraced strains all of which were alike in biological properties, and for these organisms the name Leptotrichia buccalis is suggested. The resemblance of some of the cultivated filamentous organisms to the fusiform bacilli is stressed and confusing similarities between the definitions of Leptotrichia and Fusiformis are pointed out. No pathogenic properties are ascribed to the organisms although possible roles are suggested in relation to dental caries and the formation of salivary calculus.

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