British scientists have found new species of oral cavity bacteria which contribute to various mouth problems such as tooth decay.

According to a study published in the International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Biology, 'Prevotella histicola' belongs to a family, consisting of three new strains of oral bacteria, linked to various gum diseases along with other body infections.

Findings revealed the presence of the Prevotella family in both healthy and cancerous oral tissue cells.

King's College London researchers believe these findings can help tackle bacterial activity responsible for mouth diseases and caries.

A large number of microbes including viruses, fungi, protozoa and bacteria live in the oral cavity; half of which, however, have yet to be identified.

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