To the naked eye, you look like a single organism. The truth is, though, that you are home to billions upon billions of microorganisms, including bacteria! While that might sound a little unsettling, it is actually pretty amazing. How many of those bacteria live in your mouth, and how can you maintain a healthy oral microbiome? This blog post provides some helpful information.
How Many Bacteria?
According to one estimate, there are about 700 species of bacteria that live in the human mouth, while there are billions of individual bacteria. Before you become too alarmed, remember that most of those bacteria are harmless. In fact, many of them are actually helpful!
A well-balanced microbiome (a microbiome is simply the sum of all the microorganisms in a particular environment) can support your oral health, reduce your risk of systemic disease, and help to control inflammation throughout your body.
What Affects Your Oral Microbiome?
Your oral microbiome started to grow at birth. In fact, prenatal factors can even affect the balance of bacteria in your mouth. Some research indicates that if your mother had gum disease during pregnancy, you are more likely to have more harmful bacteria in your mouth than you should, which can increase your risk of dental decay and gum disease later in life.
Other factors that can affect your oral microbiome include your oral hygiene, your diet, and your genetics. Your DNA may play a big role in determining whether or not certain types of bacteria are likely to colonize in your mouth.
Maintaining a Healthy Oral Microbiome
You can support a balanced and healthy oral microbiome by:
- Keeping up with oral hygiene. A thorough oral hygiene routine can reduce the growth of harmful bacteria, which lowers your risk of cavities and gum infections. Brushing and flossing are both important! However, some experts recommend that you limit the use of antibacterial mouth rinses because they can kill good bacteria as well as bad.
- Minding your diet. When you eat sugar and starches, harmful bacteria feed on them and multiply. Then, they produce plaque, which can lead to tooth decay and oral infections. It is important not to overdo it on sweet treats!
- Eating certain foods. Probiotic and prebiotic foods, such as fruits, veggies, and fermented items, can promote a good balance of bacteria in your body.
- Visiting your dentist. Regular dental cleanings can keep bad bacteria under control, and your dental team can provide personalized tips for maintaining excellent oral health.
The bacteria in your mouth make up a remarkable community! Take care of your oral microbiome so you can enjoy a healthy and strong smile.
Meet the Practice
At the Center for Contemporary Dentistry, our team is proud to provide comprehensive oral health services for our community. If you are concerned about cavities, gum disease, or other issues that relate to your smile, we can perform a thorough examination and recommend your next steps. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, contact our Belmont office at 603-556-7047.