At home in the biome

The human mouth is home to trillions of microorganisms, consisting of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and even archaea. These microorganisms form a complex ecosystem known as the oral biome. While some of these microorganisms are beneficial and contribute to oral health, as you know, others can be harmful and lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral infections.

The mouth has a variety of micro-environments that host different bacterial populations too; the tongue, the hard palate, the teeth, the area around the tooth surfaces, above the gums, and below the gums. Dentures also provide a protected habitat, especially beneath the fitting surface, which results in colonisation and growth by a range of bacteria and yeasts.