Probiotic Oral
Microbiome

Probiotic Oral Microbiome

10 health benefits of having a probiotic oral microbiome

Nurturing probiotic bacteria is important to maintain good gut health

We recommend consuming vast quantities of yoghurt and other probiotic products to ensure the gut microbiome includes a good range of probiotic bacterial species.

The oral cavity contains the body’s second largest microbiota

If we move back up the oesophagus to the mouth, we’ll find the location of the body’s second largest microbiota after the gut – the oral cavity. Alas, there is no such public awareness or recognition of the oral microbiota, nor the links of its 600-700 species to our oral and general health.

Where in the oral cavity do they live?

Pretty much everywhere, including the teeth, tongue, gum line (gingival sulcus), saliva, hard/soft palates, floor of your mouth, inner cheeks and throat. All these different saliva-coated surfaces combine to provide a unique and varied environment suitable for a wide range of probiotic microbial species.

What is the gut microbiome and microbiota?

The gut microbiome refers to the curated collection of genomes (genes) identified in all the microorganisms found in a person’s gut. It’s basically a list of germ genes.

On the other hand, the gut microbiota is a reference to the gut’s microbial ecosystem and the actual microorganisms living in it. Their numbers can vary from 10 trillion to 100 trillion microorganisms at any given time. For example, several hours after a huge meal, the microorganism count in your gut skyrockets for a good reason.

Having a well balanced, flourishing gut microbiota benefits your body in a number of ways:

Breaks down and converts food into absorbable nutrients for the body’s cell regeneration, energy and hydration needs

Regulation of nutrient absorption

Protection against harmful bacteria by competitive exclusion

Production of essential bio-active compounds, such as a range of B vitamins

10 benefits of a diverse oral microbiome and healthy oral microbiota

A healthy oral microbiota is an exceptionally complex microbial habitat that contributes to our oral and general health in many ways:

Helps to shape and drive a healthy gut microbiome

Regulates the saliva’s buffering capacity (for high PH) to neutralise acids in the mouth – the type that causes tooth erosion

Reduces numbers of pathogenic acid-producing bacteria via competitive exclusion – decreases the bacterial acid load responsible for tooth decay & cavities

Helps prevent gum disease

Decreases gum inflammation

Initiates digestion and digestive processes

Metabolises nitrates into nitrites – a key molecule to reduce blood pressure

Prevents plaque

Prevents bad breath

A balanced oral microbiota leads to good oral health, great digestion and even better nutritional uptake for a healthier mouth and body. Unfortunately, eating junk food and excess use of antimicrobial mouthwashes aren’t the best ways to sustain these plant-loving probiotic oral bacteria. On the contrary, we have either starved or wiped them out, acidified our saliva and allowed billions of sugar-loving pathogenic bacteria to take over – wreaking havoc on our teeth, gums, brain and body.

Is it time for you to replenish and nourish your oral microbiota for better oral health? Contact us today!