Most of the time, you probably think of your body as a single living being. The truth is, though, that you are host to a staggering number of microorganisms, including lots of bacteria! Do not let that fact disturb you — most of these tiny critters are harmless or even helpful. In this blog post, you will learn about how many bacteria may be living in your mouth, the role they play in your oral health, and how you can properly care for this microscopic community.
How Many Bacteria?
There is research to indicate that around 700 different species are present in the oral cavity, and when you account for individual bacteria, there are likely billions of microorganisms that live on your teeth, gums, tongue, and other places throughout your mouth. Many of these bacteria support your oral and overall health, while others are harmful.
When viewed as a whole community, the bacteria that live in your mouth are referred to as your oral microbiome. When this microbiome is well-balanced, it can do much to support your oral health. If it becomes unbalanced, you are much more likely to experience tooth decay, gum disease, and even systemic illness.
Influences on Your Oral Microbiome
There are quite a few factors that can influence the composition of your oral microbiome. For example, if your mother had gum disease while she was pregnant with you, you may be more likely to have an increased number of harmful bacteria in your own mouth.
Other things that can influence your oral microbiome include:
- Oral hygiene habits
- Dietary choices
- Your overall health status
- Your genes
Steps to Support a Healthy Oral Microbiome
How can you promote a healthy and balanced oral microbiome? Here are a few simple steps that might help:
- Maintain a diligent oral care routine: Make it a habit to brush and floss every day in order to keep harmful bacteria at bay. Remember, though, that even though antimicrobial mouthwashes can be useful in certain circumstances, using them excessively may wipe out both harmful and beneficial microbes.
- Make thoughtful dietary choices: Consuming foods loaded with sugar and starch gives destructive bacteria the fuel they need to create plaque, which can lead to cavities and gum problems. By cutting back on sweet snacks and sugary beverages, you help foster a cleaner, healthier environment in your mouth.
- Eat foods that support a healthy oral microbiome: Including items rich in probiotics and prebiotics — such as a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods — can help stimulate the growth of good bacteria in your oral microbiome.
- Schedule regular dental checkups: Regular dental cleanings can help to minimize the presence of harmful bacteria in your mouth. Your care team can also provide tailored advice to help your smile thrive.
The bacteria in your mouth constitute an amazing and complex community! When you take steps to support a healthy microbiome, you are promoting your oral and overall health.
Meet the Practice
At Orbis Dental Group, our skilled team works together to help patients maintain excellent oral health and enjoy improved overall wellness. If you have questions about how you can fight bad bacteria and support a beneficial oral microbiome, we would be pleased to speak with you. Contact our San Antonio office at 210-496-1919.