Dr. James Belcher, December 19, 2025

Good bacteria, bad bacteria – why your mouth needs roommates

Millions of bacteria live in your mouth – and that's not necessarily a bad thing. Some of them are true "bodyguards" for your oral health, while others can promote inflammation and even disease. Here you'll learn why you absolutely need these beneficial inhabitants and how they protect you – plus tips on how to provide them with a good environment.

Gute Bakterien, schlechte Bakterien – warum jeder Mund Mitbewohner braucht

What is that?

Your mouth is home to hundreds to thousands of microorganisms—bacteria, fungi, and viruses—that together form the oral microbiome. Some of these microbes are beneficial and protect your oral cavity, while others can become harmful if the balance is disrupted. A healthy balance keeps harmful bacteria in check and supports your oral health.

Why is this important?

An imbalance in the oral microbiome (dysbiosis) can trigger inflammation—and such inflammation is the starting point for cavities, gingivitis, or periodontitis. At the same time, a healthy oral microbiome also influences your overall health. Studies show that a stable oral flora can help reduce inflammation and health risks throughout the body.

Science explained briefly

The mouth and body are closely connected — the oral microbiome acts like a protective community: beneficial bacteria outcompete harmful ones, regulate the immune system, and build protective barriers. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} However, if this balance is disrupted—for example, by sugar, smoking, poor oral hygiene, or harsh mouthwashes—pathogenic bacteria can proliferate. This dysbiosis promotes inflammation, mucosal irritation, and gum disease. Approaches like PerioTrap® technology address this very issue: Instead of killing all bacteria (as with classic antiseptics and aggressive rinsing), they aim to block only the pathogenic mechanisms of specific bacteria—thus preserving and stabilizing the "good" microbiome. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

What can you do?

  • Brush your teeth twice a day and don't forget the spaces between your teeth.
  • Avoid harsh mouthwashes or disinfectants that kill all bacteria — they threaten the balance of your microbiome. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
  • Opt for microbiome-friendly toothpastes and care products that specifically regulate harmful bacteria without destroying the entire microbiome.
  • Pay attention to a balanced diet, reduce sugar and acidic foods — this helps your microbiome stay stable. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
  • Have your teeth and gums checked regularly to detect and treat inflammation or dysbiosis early.

In summary

  • Your mouth harbors a complex microbiome made up of many microorganisms.
  • Good microbes protect you – bad ones can cause diseases.
  • A balanced approach to oral care — instead of “killing everything” — preserves the balance.
  • Microbiome-friendly care and conscious habits maintain your oral health and support your overall health.

Did you know?

A healthy oral microbiome is now considered the first line of defense—not only against caries and periodontitis, but potentially also against systemic diseases. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Sources

  • Rajasekaran JJ et al. “Oral Microbiome: A Review of Its Impact on Oral and Systemic Health” (2024)
  • Deo PN et al. “Oral Microbiome: Unveiling the Fundamentals” PMC (2019)
  • Sunstar GUM / Scientific article – Importance of a balanced oral microbiome (2025)
  • PerioTrap product information – Microbiome modulation instead of antiseptic
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