What are the different types of bacteria in the mouth?
Posted By Dr. Nathan Pfister
Many of us are aware that bacteria are present in the smile. Not only bad bacteria but good bacteria too. The National Institute of Health claims that the average smile is home to approximately 700 different species of bacteria and microorganisms at any given time. They reside on the gums, teeth, and tongue. While there are specific microorganisms that help manage bad bacteria, harmful bacteria can remain, which is why taking care of the smile every day is strongly encouraged by Drs. Nathan and Brian Pfister of Biodentist Alabama in Dothan, Alabama.
How are bacteria harmful to the smile and health?
The bad bacteria that reside in the smile use the foods and beverages we consume and feed off the sugars and carbs, leaving behind the plaque. It can also turn sugar into acid, which results in the formation of cavities in the teeth. Cavities, also known as tooth decay, and periodontal disease, an infection in the mouth, are two of the more common problems patients face when trying to maintain good oral health and wellness. Another reason to want a healthy smile is that bad oral bacteria are contributing to many general health conditions such as autoimmunity, cardiovascular disease, and alzheimer.
Two of the most common bacteria harmful to the smile
The two most common varieties of harmful bacteria in the mouth are streptococcus mutans and porphyromonas gingivalis.
Streptococcus mutans. Streptococcus mutans is a more commonly known bacteria that feed off the starches and sugars you eat to form cavities. These bacteria effectively produce acids that can erode natural tooth enamel and live effectively in areas with a low pH balance, making it the primary contributor to the development of tooth decay.
Porphyromonas gingivalis. Porphyromonas gingivalis is not prevalent in healthy smiles, but if it does appear, it can contribute to periodontitis. This is the more severe stage of periodontal disease, an infection that can cause inflammation of the soft tissues. If periodontitis is not effectively diagnosed and treated, it can result in the loss of gum tissue, bone, and even natural teeth.
How to effectively manage bad bacteria
Knowing that bacteria can harm the smile may immediately make you feel overwhelmed with maintaining your oral health and wellness. Basic good habits include brushing and flossing the teeth, visiting the dentist regularly, and sticking to a healthy diet that reduces sugars and starches. Also, consider certain foods known for boosting healthy bacteria, such as pickles, yogurt, and even sourdough bread! Additional techniques such as ozonated water and oils as well as specific mouth rinses and be helpful improving bad oral bacteria. By properly caring for the teeth and gums, you can protect your smile and health from tooth decay and periodontitis.
Are you ready to learn more about caring for your smile?
If you are on a mission to combat harmful bacteria in the mouth, it is time to connect with Drs. Nathan and Brian Pfister of Biodentist Alabama. We can test for and manage high risk oral bacteria. Our Dothan, Alabama practice is dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain oral health and wellness.
Call (855) 939-5566 to request an appointment at our office in Suite 1 at 200 Parkwest Circle. The team is open to new and returning patients in and around the community.
Dr. Pfister's passion for non-invasive biologic dentistry began while practicing dentistry in Hawaii and he learned of the power of ozone in dentistry. From Hawaii, Dr. Pfister moved to his hometown of Upland as the protégé of the world-renowned ozone dentist Dr. Bill Domb...
Dr. Brian Pfister was born and raised in Upland, CA. He attended Brigham Young University-Idaho, graduating with a degree in exercise physiology with a minor in chemistry. From Idaho, Dr. Brian returned to southern California to continue dental training at Western University College of Dental Medicine.