In certain embodiments, novel targeting peptides that specifically/preferentially bind to S. mutans are provided. The targeting peptides can be attached to effectors (e.g., detectable labels, drugs, antimicrobial peptides, etc.) to form chimeric constructs for specifically/preferentially delivering the effector to and/or into the target organism. In certain embodiments the targeting peptides attached, e.g., to antimicrobial peptides can be used to selectively inhibit and/or kill S. mutans and, when used in the oral cavity of a mammal, can be effective to reduce the incidence and/or severity of dental caries and/or the incidence and/or severity of periodontal disease.
