03 January 2025
Many of us are aware of the importance of our intestinal flora and their role in keeping us healthy. However, the organisms in our mouth are also important. Our oral flora refers to the colonies of bacteria, fungi, viruses and organisms which, when balanced, help to protect us and support good health. These clusters of microorganisms are unique and influenced by our diet, age, oral hygiene and general health. Our oral flora is also part of our overall human microbiome – all of the micro organisms which live in and on our body.
What are the good and not so good bacteria in the mouth?
Some of the bacteria in our mouth are protective and help us to fight off the bugs that cause inflammation. Others help to prevent cavities from forming. However, many bacteria are less friendly and contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Streptococcus mutans is one type of bacteria which feeds on sugar and turns it into lactic acid. This acid attacks the tooth enamel and causes holes to form in the teeth. Another type of bacteria which can colonise in the oral cavity are actinomycetes which, although normal in the mouth, can cause tooth decay or gum disease when they are allowed to grow unchecked. Sulphur producing bacteria on the tongue can cause bad breath, as can other bacteria and germs which can cause periodontitis. With time, and insufficient cleaning, the dental plaque gets thicker, cutting off oxygen to the deeper layers and allowing the more damaging bacteria to overgrow.
5 tips to support your healthy oral flora
Oral health is integral to our overall health and wellbeing. It can be helpful to do what we can to maintain a healthy balance of good or protective bacteria by doing these 5 things:
- Brush your teeth for 2 minutes, twice each day and floss daily.
- Use a fluoridated toothpaste when you brush.
- Use a tongue scraper daily, or brush your tongue.
- Drink plenty of water. This will help to maintain your protective saliva flow.
- See your oral health professional every 6 months for a checkup and professional clean. Book an appointment.
What else can I do to have a healthy mouth?
Your diet will influence the type of bacteria which live in your mouth. A diet high in sugar and fermentable carbohydrates will provide optimal conditions for bacteria to thrive. It’s not just food which can alter the balance of microorganisms in the mouth, but liquids, including alcohol as well. There are benefits in limiting alcohol intake for a range of reasons, including oral health.
Avoid smoking, vaping and using nicotine pouches in the mouth. Research has shown there is a relationship between smoking and changes in the oral, lung and gut microbiome. Speak with your dentist about the risks, or benefits of using mouthwash. Book a dental appointment today to talk about your oral health and ways you can support your healthy oral flora.
References
- Actinomycosis – Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | BMJ Best Practice
- To Beat Bad Breath, Keep the Bacteria in Your Mouth Happy | Scientific American
- Oral health messages for Australia: A national consensus statement – Welti – 2023 – Australian Dental Journal – Wiley Online Library
- Promoting a healthy oral flora and boosting good bacteria
Smoking and microbiome in oral, airway, gut and some systemic diseases – PMC
