Understanding the Bacteria in your Mouth

Although each person only holds 30 to 80 at a given time, your mouth can house over 700 different strains of bacteria. Most of these microscopic critters are harmless, however, there are a few that can harm your health that you should be aware of.

Let’s take a look at a couple.

Porphyromonas gingivalis

Also found in the lungs, gut, and colon, these black, rod shaped pests are the chief of gum disease bacterium. To put it simply, given the chance, they will burrow down deep in the gum and stay put. There they will thrive, multiply and increase in numbers and damage to the gum. It is not unlike foreign invaders taking over and destroying your gums. Of course, We shouldn’t give these tough guys a chance at our gums. To protect your gums from these bacteria attacks, brush and floss daily and consider healthy dietary choices. Easy right? 🙂

Streptococcus mutans

Talk about tooth decay, these guys love it! Wiry, strands of tooth decaying machines, this bacteria, if plaque is allowed to build up, will feed off plaque and produce an acidic byproduct that increases the rate of tooth decay. Again, we don’t want to give these bad boys a chance to erode our teeth. The solution? Daily oral cleansing.

Just call our Hingham or Norwood office at 781-583-1134 or click here to schedule your consultation.