What is the oral microbiota?
The microbiota of the oral cavity is the set of commensal, symbiotic and possibly pathogenic microorganisms present in the oral cavity and is one of the most complex of the human body in terms of the number and variety of species present. More than 700 different species of bacteria, several species of fungi and protozoa have been identified. The microbial colonization of this habitat is facilitated by the availability of epithelial debris, the presence of salivary mucoproteins, pH and temperature.
What are the functions of the oral microbiota?
The oral microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis, protecting against and preventing the development of diseases of the oral cavity. The oral cavity also exerts an influence on the pharynx, tonsils, Eustachian tubes and the middle ear.
Altered oral microbiota: causes and symptoms
The proliferation of pathogenic bacteria and the decrease in symbiotic bacteria can cause several symptoms, such as:
- tonsillitis,
- pharyngitis,
- otitis,
- cavities,
- canker sores,
- stomatitis,
- gingival bleeding,
- inflamed throat,
- numerous other symptoms.
The oral microbiota plays an important role in the genesis of diseases that are not strictly related to the oropharyngeal tract, such as cardiovascular diseases, intestinal inflammation, metabolic disorders, liver cirrhosis, cancer, diseases of the nervous system (such as Alzheimer’s disease), diabetes, obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome and diseases of the immune system such as rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis.
In addition, it has been seen that the presence of specific oral bacteria can increase the risk of oesophageal cancer.
How can we ensure that our microbiota is healthy?
The conditions in the oral cavity, both physical and chemical parameters, are affected by exposure to the external environment. The microflora is different in the various sites of the oral cavity such as saliva, tongue, teeth, cheeks, hard and soft palate.
Several endogenous and exogenous factors contribute to the composition of the oral microbiota. Some of the factors that influence its composition include:
- Diet,
- smoking,
- alcohol consumption,
- use of antibiotics,
- pregnancy,
- contact and kissing.
In particular, the factors that are most damaging to the microbiota of the oral cavity are:
- sugars;
- smoking;
- alcohol;
- antibiotics.
In order to maintain oral bacterial homeostasis, it is important to avoid the factors that damage it and to opt for a diet rich in fiber and avoid foods rich in fat or sugar.
Oral microbiome: the test
The Microbiome test is an analysis aimed at evaluating the oral microbiota. It represents a valid non-invasive diagnostic and monitoring aid for different diseases. The use of molecular methods has greatly expanded our knowledge of the oral microbiome.
The test based on gene sequencing using NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) technology allows the characterisation of the composition and functionality of the oral bacterial flora useful for preserving balance or coping with possible conditions of dysbiosis.
The test is non-invasive and is performed using a buccal swab.
