Scientists, medical doctors, and dental professionals have currently identified just over 700 various types of bacteria that are contained within the mouth.

While many of these bacteria do not harm us, several have potentially devastating effects on the teeth, the gums, and surrounding features.

In particular, they have the capability of deteriorating the teeth and causing periodontal/gum disease. In this brief guide, you will learn about bacteria’s impact on the mouth and the steps that you may take to avoid experiencing complications.

Where Is Bacteria Found in the Mouth?

Bacteria is located in each and every single area in the mouth. It is on the teeth and between, on the tongue, collected on the gum tissue, located on the insides of the cheeks, and even way back in the throat region.

At any given time, the mouth contains billions of bacteria. All of the harmful bacteria that is within the mouth will – eventually – add up. They come together to form what is referred to as “biofilm”. This is the same thing as plaque.

If harmful bacteria are allowed to collect, one may experience bad breath, eroded enamel, cavities, periodontal disease, and even the loss of teeth.

What Affects the Bacteria That I Have in My Mouth?

Genetics has been found to play a large role with the type of bacteria in the mouth. In addition to this, the foods and drinks that you consume, your oral hygiene habits, and even underlying health issues all have an impact on the types and amounts of bacteria that you have in your mouth.

If a parent has poor dental health – for example – you are likely to experience issues. If you consume unhealthy foods and drink a lot of carbonated beverages, harmful bacteria populations will start to develop in the mouth.

If you have a health condition – such as diabetes – the harmful bacteria population in your mouth may start to grow rapidly, resulting in many dental health problems. Additionally, if you have large pockets around the teeth, this will act as a haven for bacteria to gather.

How Can I Get Rid of Bacteria in My Mouth?

You will always have bacteria in your mouth. The goal is to not get rid of all of the bacteria but rather, increase the number of good bacteria and reduce the number of bad bacteria in the mouth.

First, you should simply brush at least twice a day, floss once a day, and use a mouthwash with fluoride. Then, eat a healthy diet and keep yourself as healthy as possible.

Finally, if you have any underlying health issues, get those treated. This goes for underlying dental issues, too. For example, if you have large pockets around your teeth, you should get pocket reduction surgery performed.

This will eliminate hiding spots where the potentially dangerous bacteria hide within the mouth. For more information on this topic or to schedule an appointment, contact us today!