It also attacked Streptococcus mutans, an acid-producing bacterium which is a major cause of tooth decay.

BBC: Coconut oil could combat tooth decay

Previous research found that enzyme-modified milk could stop Streptococcus mutans from binding to tooth enamel.

BBC: Coconut oil could combat tooth decay

Since acid-producting bacteria, called streptococcus mutans, is contagious, pediatric dentists caution parents against blowing on a baby's food or cleaning a pacifier with saliva.

CNN: Baby's teeth: What you should know