Bacteria are unicellular organisms that are so small their presence often goes undetected by the human eye. However, a healthy human mouth is abundant with a variety of bacteria, some of which are beneficial and others that are detrimental. Saliva helps to eliminate some of this bacteria as does the acidity of the gut, reports the University of Chicago's Molecular Biology Archive. Without properly controlling the bacteria present in the mouth, health conditions may arise. Nonetheless, not all bacteria are harmful and understanding their function and role in the human body may help to encourage proper dental hygiene, asserts the Mayo Clinic.
Streptococcus mutans
Streptococcus mutans, or S. mutans, is a dental pathogen and is the leading cause of tooth decay around the world, asserts the European Bioinformatics Institute. Often seen as the most cariogenic, meaning cavity-causing, of all the Streptococci bacteria in the oral cavity, S. mutans sticks to the teeth's surface and feeds on simple carbohydrate procured through eating. This bacteria is present in virtually everyone in the world and preventative measures include a regular brushing and flossing regimen to minimize bacterial proliferation.
Porphyromonas gingivalis
P. gingivalis is a significant deterrent to oral health. It helps the initiation and progression of periodontal disease in which gums become red and swollen and bleed easily, reports Medline Plus. This bacteria infiltrates the subgingival region and adheres to dental tissues or other bacteria. Although gingivitis and periodontal disease attribute to a localized region around the tooth, persistent proliferation of this bacterium can cause major systemic conditions, including cardiovascular disease and early deliveries in pregnant women. Regularly flossing and brushing your teeth, in tandem with annual professional dental cleanings can prevent P. gingivalis from overtaking the bacterial balance in the mouth.
Treponema denticola
T. denticola aids in the progression of periodontal disease, inflammation and gum recession. Approximately 80 percent of adults in the United States experience periodontal disease within their lifetime--much attributed to the proliferation of T. detnticola. This bacterium invades healthy gingival tissues and can infect the root canals of teeth causing severe pain and, in some cases, the need for dental surgery. A 1996 University of Laval in Quebec study showed that P. gingivalis and T. denticola can decrease the effectiveness of normal human bacterial inhibitors in the mouth leading to severe periodontal degradation over time.
Other Bacteria
There are several other types of bacteria that exist within the oral cavity, although not as dominant as those listed. Nonetheless, partaking in proper oral hygiene can help prevent associated cavities and the onset of health conditions where bacteria can infiltrate the blood stream. The Mayo Clinic recommends seeing a dentist at least once or twice a year. If swollen or tender gums appear, sensitivity develops or gum recession occurs, contact a dental professional immediately for the necessary treatment.
