Enterococcus faecalis(E. faecalis) is the main pathogen of root canal reinfection and persistent periapical periodontitis in human oral cavity. This species can survive for a long time in the harsh environment of a root canal.E. faecalishas a certain resistance to most root canal therapy drugs, as well as cleaning and disinfection methods. This species presents a major challenge in root canal therapy at present. In addition,E. faecalisis associated with some systemic infections, such as gastrointestinal and urinary tract infection. Its pathogenesis is related to its initial adhesion to the host, biofilm formation, invasive infection, and immune escape.E. faecalisexpresses various proteins, glycolipids, and other adhesion to achieve initial adhesion. This species can regulates the expression of various biofilm-associated genes to form a mature biofilm to fight against the body’s deterioration, and realize the communication between cells subsequently. Eventually,E. faecaliscolonizes a local area or even the whole body to cause infection. The present review focuses on the pathogenic factors and pathogenesis ofE. faecalis.
