The Oral Microbiome: How Your Mouth Affects Your Whole Body Health

When we think about maintaining good health, our minds typically jump to our diets and getting regular physical exercise. However, an often-overlooked component is oral health, particularly the oral microbiome. So, what is it and how can it influence your health? Penn Dental Medicine explains.

What Is the Oral Microbiome? The Mouth’s Role in Whole Body Health

From bacteria and fungi to viruses, millions of microorganisms live in our mouths. The term oral microbiome refers to this microscopic community, which acts as the gateway to the rest of the body.

The Mouth as a Window to Overall Health

The connection between oral and overall health is not a new concept in medicine, but it has gained significant attention in recent years due to its implications on systemic diseases.

As the gateway to your body, the oral microbiome’s complex ecosystem plays an essential role in the initial digestion of food, maintaining oral health, and overall physiological functions. A healthy oral microbiome contains a delicate balance of both good and bad bacteria, where beneficial bacteria help in maintaining health. In contrast, harmful bacteria can lead to oral and systemic diseases.

A disruption in the balance of these microbes, known as dysbiosis, can lead to:

• Dental issues such as:
  • Cavities.
  • Gum disease.
• Health issues such as:
  • Cardiovascular disease.
  • Digestive difficulties.
  • Diabetes.
  • Dementia.
  • Pregnancy complications.
  • Obesity.
  • Cancer.
  • Pneumonia and other respiratory disorders.

9 Signs of an Unhealthy Oral Microbiome

During a dental examination, your dentist looks for several signs that might indicate an unhealthy oral microbiome, including:

1. Plaque and tartar buildup.
2. Gum inflammation.
3. Bad breath.
4. Tooth decay.
5. Gum recession.
6. Oral lesions (canker sores).
7. Changes in saliva.
8. Loose teeth.
9. Enamel erosion and sensitivity.

What Is an Oral Microbiome Test?

An oral microbiome test is a diagnostic tool used to analyze the composition and balance of microorganisms within your mouth. By identifying these microorganisms, your dentist can gain insights into your oral health and its potential impacts on your overall well-being.

How an oral microbiome test works:

1. Sample Collection: A collection of saliva or a swab of the oral tissue is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
2. DNA Analysis: In the lab, the sample undergoes DNA sequencing to identify the specific microorganisms present.
3. Data Interpretation: The results are reviewed to show whether there is an overabundance of harmful bacteria or a deficiency in beneficial bacteria.

Your dentist will use these findings to develop personalized treatment plans. Overall, an oral microbiome test provides critical insights that extend beyond traditional

How To Improve the Oral Microbiome

Maintaining a healthy oral microbiome is possible with several strategies that encourage the growth of good bacteria while minimizing harmful bugs. Here are some tips:

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash help maintain the balance of good versus bad bacteria and reduce plaque buildup.
2. Probiotic Foods and Supplements: Think of these as the good guys in your mouth. Consuming these can aid in promoting a healthy balance of good bacteria. Foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods, as well as oral health probiotics specifically designed for oral health, can be beneficial.
3. Balance Your Diet: Excessive growth of bad bacteria is often linked to a high-sugar diet. A balanced diet low in sugar and high in vegetables and fruits supports not just your oral health but your overall health.
4. Regular Dental Checkups: Dental professionals can provide an oral microbiome test to assess the current state of your oral health and offer personalized recommendations.

Talk to Your Dentist About Your Oral Health

The health of our mouths is intimately connected to the well-being of our entire body. An unhealthy oral microbiome can have far-reaching impacts beyond the mouth, affecting digestive health, cardiovascular health, and even cognitive functions.

Your Penn Dental Medicine dentist is here to help ensure that your oral microbiome is healthy or provide strategies to help maintain this critical ecosystem and prevent more severe health problems down the line. With our many specialties, including oral medicine, periodontics, and more, we can get you any help you need in one convenient location.

Schedule your exam today by calling 215-898-8965 or completing this form.