Streptococcus oralis

Streptococcus oralis is a Gram positive bacterium that grows characteristically in chains. It forms small white colonies on a Wilkins-Chalgren agar plate. It is found in high numbers in the oral cavity. It has been classified as a member of the Streptococcus mitis group. Members of this group are opportunistic pathogens. Strains of S. oralis produce neuraminidase and an IgA protease and cannot bind α-amylase.