Oral microbiome

The totality of microorganisms that colonize the oral cavity (microbiota), along with their structural elements, metabolites, and signaling molecules. The microbiota includes bacteria, fungi, unicellular and multicellular organisms, and viruses. Alongside the gut (see also: gut microbiome), the oral cavity—with over 700 bacterial species—comprises the second-largest microbiome. Dysbiosis in the oral cavity leads to conditions such as halitosis, dental caries, gingivitis, and periodontitis.  The oral microbiome influences not only the immune status in the mouth but also throughout the entire body.

Recent studies point to a link with lung diseases such as COPD, pneumonia, and lung cancer, as well as cardiovascular diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and various metabolic disorders.