Bacteria are one of the most resilient microorganisms. You can even stumble across them in the extreme locations on the earth. Hence, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that you can find bacteria in your mouth. Now, you don’t need to fret about the bacteria found in your mouth. This is because most of them have no ill effect apart from a few that we shall discuss.
Where Are These Bacteria In Your Mouth?
They can collect everywhere in your mouth. They build up on your teeth or ridges in-between, and some can reside in your gum lines. Other than that, they often cover the inner part of your cheek and on bumps of your tongue. Therefore, it’s hard to find a spot in our mouths without bacteria.
What Are The Good Bacteria?
Good bacteria are known as probiotics. These bacteria more often aid in digestion that starts in our mouth. You can amp up the concentration of probiotics through your intake of fermented food like yogurt or cheese. Other than that, you may unintentionally ingest them as food contamination. Nonetheless, if they end up in your diet and your mouth, your body will gain a useful ally.
What About The Bad Ones?
We have already discussed good and neutral bacteria, but these evil ones concern us the most. They are the leading cause of dental decay and gum diseases.
Streptococcus mutans (S.mutans): This notorious genus of bacteria is mostly linked to dental decay. They can be found anywhere in your mouth. However, to cause tooth decay, they need to come in contact with sucrose or sugar. This condition is met when some food remnants are left dangling behind. Thus, S.mutans quickly act and start their feast. Leading to an increase in the S.mutan population, they also start to secrete acid to digest the food remains. This acid dissolves the mineral structure of the enamel, weakening it.
Treponema denticola and Porphyromonas gingivalis: These two families of bacteria are the most common gum offender. Their ploy makes use of toxins produced by these bacteria. These toxins disrupt the natural harmony between oral bacteria and also harm gum tissues. Consequently, our body responds to toxin concentration by inflammation. However, if enough of these bacteria sneak beneath the gum line, their toxin has a devastating effect. This is because the toxin can damage bone and connective tissue, causing the tooth to loosen up. This can eventually lead to bone and tooth loss.
Two Problems, One Solution:
Prevention of gum inflammation and tooth decay is simple and easy, and it is brushing. Brushing regularly dislodges the stuck food particle and lowers the chances of S.mutans acting on the food. Similarly, brushing can also help halt the onslaught of gum-irritating bacteria. You can also try antiseptic mouthwash as it can help you deal with harmful bacteria. However, in the end, don’t forget about dental appointments, as dentists can help you maintain great oral hygiene. You can visit Brookshire Smile Dental for a dental appointment. We would love to help you out, and you can call us at 281-934-1010 for more inquiries.