Microorganisms in your Mouth

A microorganism is an organism or living entity of microscopic or submicroscopic size.

There are different kinds of single-celled micro-organisms that are present in the human mouth. It is important to know the difference between the good ones and the bad ones, so you can treat or prevent gum disease.

An important fact to know is that a healthy mouth with normal microflora is relatively static (still), with few moving microorganisms visible under the microscope.

The motile (moving) organisms in the mouth are present where there is gum disease. Therefore, the more motion, the more potential for disease.

Spirochetes:

These distinctive, corkscrew-like organisms have the highest correlation with disease of ANY organisms studied. They wriggle and worm their way into the tissues of the mouth. They are one of the few bacteria we know that can eat through skin. Their technical name is Treponemena and they are rarely, if ever found in a healthy situation. The bigger and longer they are, the riskier they are.

Small Gliding Rods:

These short cigar-shaped microorganisms cruise around rapidly in samples taken from people with gum disease.. They have been photographed growing on bone, and it is currently thought they actually destroy bone.

Large Gliding Rods:

These are longer and more graceful in motion. However, they are not your friends either. They too are thought to contribute to dental problems by destroying the bone around the teeth..

Spinning Rods:

 

These microorganisms twirl and spin with in all directions. They are easy to spot since they are so active and colorful. They are another risk factor frequently associated with progressive gum disease.

 

Fusobacteria:

 

This type of bacteria produces butyric acid as a byproduct and is what causes bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth.

 

 

In addition to bacteria, one-celled animals (or protozoans) are also found in the mouth. They are never seen in healthy samples from the mouth, but some controversy surrounds their exact role in periodontal disease.  Here are two protozoans that can be found on a microscope slide. 

 

Trichomonads: 

 

Looks like tiny mice, with five long filaments thrashing about in front, allowing them to march around all over the bacteria. They are much larger than bacteria. They are mostly found in persons with severe gum disease. 

 

 

Amoebas: 

 

These are formless blobs. They slowly creep from place to place; taking on the shape of whatever food they eat. They are believed to eat white blood cells. They too, are mostly found in persons with severe gum disease.

 

 

 

 

These parasites can live in your mouth for days or weeks at a time.

 

When you come in for your cleaning, Nicole can show you a slide of what is lurking in your gums, and based on a chart, give you a general timeline of just how long those parasites have been hanging out in your mouth!

 

If a parasite has been in your mouth for a while, that means you are missing an area when brushing or flossing.  We can help you pinpoint those areas and ensure better care!