When we think about maintaining healthy teeth and gums, we often think of brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. But did you know that there’s an entire microscopic world inside your mouth that plays a crucial role in good oral health and cavity prevention, too? This ecosystem is known as the oral microbiome, and the team at Nest Dental wants to share five things you should know about this world inside your mouth.
1. What Is a Microbiome?
To understand the oral microbiome, it’s helpful to first answer the question, “What is a microbiome?” A microbiome refers to the community of microorganisms living in a particular environment, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes. Human microbiomes exist in various parts of our bodies, including the gut, skin, and mouth. When the microorganisms within their part of the body exist in balance and harmony, everything is great. You feel great! But if not, metabolic functioning can suffer, or in the case of the oral microbiome, you can be more prone to tooth decay, cavities, and other oral health issues.
Speaking of, when it comes to the mouth microbiome, you’ll find a dynamic and diverse collection of microorganisms. Of these, you’ll find hundreds of types of bacteria and billions of individual bacteria in your mouth at any given time. Mind blown.
The oral microbiome is made up of several sections that have their own characteristics. Think of our oral microbiome like a house with several rooms: the rooms (teeth, tongue, palate, gums, etc) are all connected and have similar types of furniture (microorganisms) but the style of furniture from room to room varies slightly — like a kitchen chair vs. an armchair.
2. The Importance of the Oral Microbiome
The makeup of your oral microbiome contributes greatly to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. A complex balance of those hundreds of types of good and bad bacteria in your mouth helps to prevent dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
But it’s not just your oral health that’s affected by the microbiome in your mouth: a well-balanced oral microbiome can help protect against harmful pathogens that can affect your overall health. Your mouth is a transition point between the outside world and your immune system, creating a mouth-body connection. In other words, an imbalance in your oral microbiome can negatively affect your overall health. (We’ll talk more about the mouth-body connection below in point #5.)
3. Factors Affecting Your Oral Microbiome
Several factors can influence the health of your oral microbiome. Diet, hygiene practices, genetics, and even stress levels can impact the balance of bacteria in your mouth. Sugars and refined carbohydrates raise your bad oral bacteria and the acidity in your mouth which contributes to tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, biological changes (like from pregnancy), smoking, and taking antibiotics can also affect your mouth microbiome.
On the other hand, consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains with sugar in moderation can support a healthy oral microbiome. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are also key in maintaining a good balance.
4. How to Fix Your Oral Microbiome
If you’re wondering how to fix your oral microbiome to support cavity prevention, the good news is that it’s definitely possible! First, focus on levelling up your at-home oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Use a fluoride toothpaste and consider adding a fluoride, antimicrobial mouthwash to your routine.
When it comes to food, eat healthy, whole foods, reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks, and drink lots of water! Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bad bacteria, and promotes saliva production which is crucial for maintaining a healthy mouth microbiome.
You can also take dental probiotics formulated with the bacteria that’s specifically for the oral microbiome. Several studies have found that these probiotics, depending on which bacteria strain they contain, can improve chronic bad breath, decrease the risk of gum disease, and help prevent cavities. Most concerned about cavities? The bacteria strain to look for in oral probiotic products to help prevent cavities is called L. reuteri.
Still not sure which probiotics to choose for encouraging healthy teeth and gums? Dr. Sahi is happy to provide recommendations for probiotics, as well as dietary and lifestyle changes you can make. Ask at your next appointment.
5. The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Health
As we hinted at earlier, your mouth microbiome doesn’t just impact your oral health, it’s also linked to your overall health. Research has shown a mouth-body connection — that poor oral health can be associated with various systemic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By taking steps to improve your oral health with a healthy oral microbiome, you’re not only preventing cavities and gum disease but also supporting your overall well-being.
A Healthy Oral Microbiome = Healthy Teeth and Gums
Start caring for the world inside your mouth and enjoy the benefits of healthier teeth and gums. Need more tips and advice about how to fix your oral microbiome? Your East Vancouver dentist is here to help. Schedule a relaxing visit to our spa-like Fraser Street dental studio and let’s work together towards a healthier smile!
