The oral flora is a fascinating yet underestimated system: Millions of microorganisms live in our mouths and together form what's known as the oral microbiome. When this microbiome is in balance, it protects us from tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. But what happens when this delicate system becomes unbalanced? How do you recognize an imbalanced oral flora and what can you do about it? This article explains exactly that in detail.
What is oral flora and why is it so important?
The oral flora includes all microorganisms found on the teeth, tongue, gums, and in saliva. These are primarily bacteria, but also include yeast and other microbes. In a healthy state, these organisms form a stable balance that protects the mouth from pathogenic germs.
A healthy oral flora supports:
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The remineralization of tooth enamel
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Maintaining a neutral pH
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The defense against pathogens
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The regulation of the local immune system
If this balance is disrupted, it is referred to as dysbiosis of the oral flora. This can have various causes and manifests itself through various symptoms.
Symptoms of disturbed oral flora
Disturbed oral flora can manifest itself in a variety of ways. The symptoms are often subtle, but clearly noticeable over time. Typical signs include:
Bad breath (halitosis): One of the most common signs of an imbalance. Bacteria decompose proteins and produce sulfur compounds that smell unpleasant.
Frequent caries: Increased production of acids by certain types of bacteria leads to the degradation of tooth enamel and thus to an increased susceptibility to caries.
Gum problems: Red, swollen, or bleeding gums can indicate a bacterial imbalance. Periodontal disease can also result.
Altered sense of taste: Disturbed oral flora can affect saliva and taste buds, which can lead to a metallic or bitter taste.
Soft coating on the tongue: A whitish coating on the tongue or stubborn coatings are signs of an overgrowth of harmful germs.
Dry mouth: Reduced saliva production promotes the growth of pathogenic bacteria and can itself be a symptom of disturbed flora.
Causes of disturbed oral flora
There are many reasons why the balance of the oral microbiome can be disrupted. One of the main factors is diet. Diets high in sugar and low in fiber promote the proliferation of bacteria that produce acids and thus attack tooth enamel.
Another important factor is oral hygiene. Both inadequate and excessive cleaning can disrupt the microbiome. Aggressive mouthwashes or toothpastes with antibacterial ingredients kill not only harmful bacteria but also beneficial ones.
Antibiotics, hormonal changes, stress, smoking, alcohol consumption and certain medications (e.g. antidepressants, blood pressure lowering drugs) can also influence the composition of the oral flora.
Diagnosis: How to detect a disturbed oral flora
If you experience these symptoms, it's worth visiting your dentist or a specialist oral health consultant. In some cases, a microbiome test may be helpful. A swab is taken from the mouth and analyzed in a laboratory for the presence of certain types of bacteria.
These tests provide information about whether certain pathogenic bacteria predominate and whether the bacterial balance is disturbed. The results help initiate targeted measures to restore healthy flora.
What to do if your oral flora is disturbed?
The most important measure is restoring bacterial balance. This includes gentle but consistent oral care, an adapted diet, and the targeted use of probiotics.
Probiotics for the mouth: Certain probiotic bacterial strains, such as Streptococcus salivarius M18 or Lactobacillus reuteri , can help eliminate pathogenic germs and rebuild healthy flora. They are available in the form of lozenges or mouthwashes and should be used regularly over several weeks.
Natural support: Fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, or sauerkraut can also have a positive effect on the microbiome. It's also important to drink plenty of water to support saliva production and largely avoid sugary snacks.
Optimize your dental care: Choose a mild toothpaste without harsh antibacterial additives and brush two to three times a day. Cleaning your tongue with a scraper can also help remove plaque and stabilize your oral flora.
Conclusion: Recognizing and treating disturbed oral flora
A healthy oral flora is essential for our overall health. Symptoms such as bad breath, frequent cavities, or inflamed gums should not be ignored, as they can be signs of a disrupted oral microbiome. By understanding the causes and taking targeted countermeasures—with customized dental care, probiotic support, and a healthy diet—you can restore your oral flora to balance and ensure a healthy smile in the long term.
