Some bacteria, such as Streptococcus, Granulicatella, Gemella and Veillonella, are among the predominant microorganisms in the oral cavity; however, most bacteria are present at certain sites.
Streptococcus mutans
is the bacteria you've probably heard the most about. It lives in the mouth, specifically on the surfaces of the teeth and in areas that are difficult to clean, such as the pits and fissures of the teeth, and feeds on the sugars and starches that are consumed, which causes tooth decay. This is because it produces acids that erode enamel and thrives at a low pH, according to the microbiological spectrum, making it the main cause of tooth decay in humans.Do you know what's in your mouth? It is home to some 700 species of microbes, microscopic germs such as bacteria, fungi and viruses. These include germs such as bacteria, fungi, and more. You've probably seen a lot of mentions in the news lately about the microbiome, the body's ecosystem of microorganisms that can play an important role in your well-being. The gut microbiome, for example, not only helps digestion, but scientists believe it could help uncover some of the mysteries of obesity.
And ongoing research on the skin microbiome has the potential to help determine how we can combat acne, eczema and more. At Johnson & Johnson, scientists who focus on improving dental health are also tracking the mouth's microbiome. Although scientists are still investigating all the mechanisms involved in the creation of the oral microbiome and why some guests decide never to leave, we do know that it begins to settle almost at birth. And it continues to evolve depending on many variables, such as when the first and second sets of teeth come out. There are more than 700 different species of bacteria that can be found in the mouth, explains Tara Fourre, principal scientist at Global Oral Care Upstream Innovation, Johnson & Johnson Consumer, Microbiology. In the oral microbiome ecosystem, certain healthy bacteria act to protect the mouth (some, for example, specifically help limit tooth decay).
There are also harmful bacteria that are known to cause tooth decay and disease. Together, they form a community called biofilm, probably better known as dental plaque or that viscous feeling you might have on your teeth when you wake up in the morning. Johnson & Johnson is creating biofilms in the laboratory, using saliva donated by employees, to replicate the various organisms that make up the oral microbiome. The more we know about them, the better we can create products to combat bad bacteria in the mouth. When the balance between these bacteria changes due to poor diet, poor oral hygiene, and other health problems, it can cause harmful bacteria to take over them.
Left unchecked, this imbalance can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. Nowadays, researchers are working to understand how these healthy and harmful bacteria communicate and influence each other, explains Erin Zaleski, scientist at Global Oral Care and Wound Care Innovation, Johnson & Johnson Consumer Scientist. They're also trying to reveal the mysteries of lesser-known bacteria in the mouth. It is important to understand that from a health perspective; the mouth is a gateway to a person's overall health. On the other hand, other health problems that occur in other parts of the body can also influence oral health. People with diabetes, for example, are more likely to have periodontal disease than people who don't; probably because they're more susceptible to infections overall according to American Academy of Periodontics.
As research continues to evolve scientists are finding new and specific methods to maximize health of microbiome in mouth. Practicing good dental care is also essential for keeping oral ecosystem healthy; in addition to preventing tooth decay and gum disease.
Brushing twice a day
, as well as flossing once a day, is a good start. In addition adding an antimicrobial mouthwash such as Listerine helps further reduce risk of plaque and gingivitis.Three Common Types of Harmful Bacteria Can Affect Your Oral Health
One is related to tooth decay and other two are related to gum disease.The most common harmful bacteria related to tooth decay is Streptococcus mutans. It lives all over mouth and thrives on sugar and sucrose products. Once harmful bacteria combine with sugar they can quickly double up and secrete harmful acids. Harmful acids attack tooth enamel leading to tooth decay.
If harmful bacteria in your mouth have affected your oral health you may need dental treatment. The mouth is delicate balance between good and bad bacteria; when balance is tilted mouth is more susceptible to common dental problems such as tooth decay; tooth loss; tooth decay; gum disease etc. If you're looking for healthy foods that fight plaque buildup and keep bacteria under control University of Rochester Medical Center recommends fiber-rich fruits and vegetables; cheese; milk; green & black tea; sugar-free chewing gum; foods containing fluoride etc. And bacteria that are attracted to sugar convert it into acid which can cause cavities on surface of teeth & cause plaque formation.
The oral microbiome refers to all bacteria & their genes that live in mouth explains Purnima Kumar Ph. If you're concerned about impact of harmful bacteria on your oral health contact Encino Family Dental. The good bacteria in your saliva help break down proteins & sugars allowing for faster & more efficient digestion.
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