Oral colonization by Streptococcus mutans and caries development is reduced upon deletion of carbonic anhydrase VI expression in saliva

► All major salivary glands express Car6 type A transcripts (secretory CA VI). ► Car6 type B mRNA (intracellular CA VI) are expressed selectively in major glands. ► Deletion of both CA VI isoforms has no apparent affects on salivary function. ► The absence of secretory CA VI in saliva is associated with reduced caries in mice. ► Car6 KO mice have altered oral microbiota that may antagonize Streptococcus mutans.