oral microbiome

The oral microbiome refers to the community of tiny microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that live in our mouth. These microbes play a vital role in maintaining oral health by helping digest food, fighting harmful bacteria, and supporting immune defenses. A balanced oral microbiome supports healthy teeth and gums, while imbalance—due to poor hygiene, diet, or illness—can lead to issues like cavities, gum disease, or bad breath. Essentially, our mouth hosts a complex ecosystem of microbes essential for both oral and overall health.