The present invention provides compositions for the prophylaxis or treatment of dental caries, dental plaque, and periodontal infection that include lactic bacteria that are not part of the resident micriflora of the mouth, that are low acidifying, and that are capable of adhering directly to the pellicle of the teeth. Preferably, the lactic bacteria of the include one or more of Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis, or Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis biovar diacetylactis. The compositions are used in methods of treating or preventing dental caries, dental plaque, and periodontal infection.