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Many of us are aware of the importance of our intestinal flora and their role in keeping us healthy. However, the organisms in our mouth also play an important role. Our oral flora refers to the colonies of bacteria, fungi, viruses and organisms which, when balanced, help to protect us and support good health. These clusters of microorganisms are unique and influenced by our diet, age, oral hygiene and general health. Our oral flora is also part of our overall human microbiome – all of the micro organisms which live in and on our body.

What are the good and not so good bacteria in the mouth?

Some of the bacteria in our mouth are protective and help us to fight off the bugs which cause inflammation. Others help to prevent cavities from forming. However, many bacteria are less friendly and contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Streptococcus mutans is one type of bacteria which feeds on sugar and turns it into lactic acid. This acid attacks the tooth enamel and causes holes to form in the teeth. Another type of bacteria which can colonise in the oral cavity are actinomycetes which, although normal in the mouth, can cause tooth decay or gum disease when they are allowed to grow unchecked. Sulphur producing bacteria on the tongue can cause bad breath, as can other bacteria and germs which can cause periodontitis. With time, and insufficient cleaning, the dental plaque gets thicker, cutting off oxygen to the deeper layers and allowing the more damaging bacteria to overgrow.

5 tips to support your healthy oral flora

Oral health is integral to our overall health and wellbeing. It can be helpful to do what we can to maintain a healthy balance of good or protective bacteria by doing these 5 things:

1. Brush your teeth for 2 minutes, twice each day and floss daily.
2. Use a fluoridated toothpaste when you brush.
3. Use a tongue scraper daily, or brush your tongue.
4. Drink plenty of water. This will help to maintain your protective saliva flow.
5. See your oral health professional every 6 months for a checkup and professional clean. Book an appointment.

What else can I do to have a healthy mouth?

Your diet will influence the type of bacteria which live in your mouth. A diet high in sugar and fermentable carbohydrates will provide optimal conditions for bacteria to thrive. It’s not just food which can alter the balance of microorganisms in the mouth, but liquids, including alcohol as well. There are benefits in limiting alcohol intake for a range of reasons, including oral health.

Avoid smoking, vaping and using nicotine pouches in the mouth. Research has shown there is a relationship between smoking and changes in the oral, lung and gut microbiome. Speak with your dentist about the risks, or benefits of using mouthwash. Book a dental appointment today to talk about your oral health and ways you can support your healthy oral flora.

 

References

• Diastema: Teeth, Treatment, and Hereditary
• Actinomycosis – Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | BMJ Best Practice

We all know how important it is to care for our teeth, but it’s just as essential to look after the gums and structures that support them. Gums protect the bones that hold our teeth in place. While we can’t always see these bones, they provide the foundation our teeth need to stay secure. That’s why gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss.

Gum disease

Gum disease develops in two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. Most people will experience gingivitis at some point, which can be triggered by holiday indulgence, illness or lapses in our usual oral care routine. Smoking and vaping can also harm gum health by reducing blood flow and increasing plaque buildup.

Beyond affecting your teeth, gum disease is linked to serious health conditions like diabetes, strokes and heart disease. The good news is that maintaining good gum health is also tied to a balanced diet. Nutrients like calcium, vitamins D and C and protein support the connective tissues in your gums and help keep them strong.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and occurs when plaque builds up on the teeth and along the gum line. Plaque is made up of bacteria that trigger an immune response, leading to inflammation. This is why gums appear swollen and red when gingivitis develops.

Gingivitis can cause changes to the surface layers of the gums, often where the gum and tooth meet. The gums become swollen, red and can bleed, especially when you brush. As the gums swell and pull away, they no longer work like a firm ‘collar’ around the tooth and small pockets can form where food and bacteria settle.

When gingivitis is in the early stages, you can reverse it by paying more attention to brushing. Follow your dentist’s advice for the most effective brushing technique. For many people, the temptation can be to avoid brushing because the gums are tender and may bleed, though these are signs that more brushing is needed. Brushing at least twice each day with a soft toothbrush, using a fluoridated toothpaste and flossing daily helps to remove bacteria and plaque which cause gingivitis. Some people also like to use a tongue brush which can help to remove bacteria from the tongue.

Periodontitis

When you don’t treat gingivitis, it can develop into periodontitis, causing inflammation and infection in the tissues that hold your teeth in place. Spaces can develop between the tooth root and the gum, creating pockets where food and plaque build-up. Over time, these pockets get larger, the periodontium gets damaged and you can lose bone. As the bone can’t hold the tooth anymore, it becomes loose and may need to be removed.

Once a tooth loses its anchor, saving it becomes very difficult. Regular dental checks and preventing gum disease in the first place help you keep your teeth throughout your life.

Looking after your gums

There are a few things you can do to care for your gums, most of them focused on removing the plaque that causes gum disease:

• Brush your gums and teeth, paying special attention to where they meet. Angle the brush at 45° for optimal cleaning.
• Use a soft-headed toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush regularly, especially after you’ve recovered from being unwell.
• Clean between your teeth with floss or interdental brushes to remove food from nearly half the surface area that brushing can’t reach.
• Make regular dental visits a priority. Book an appointment to keep your smile healthy and bright all year long.

 

References

Gum disease – Better Health Channel

https://www.dentalhealth.org/gum-disease
https://www.pacificsmilesdental.com.au/news/reduce-the-impact-of-gum-disease-by-knowing-the-early-signs/
https://www.teeth.org.au/gum-diseases
https://www.teeth.org.au/gum-disease-treatment
https://www.teeth.org.au/smoking-and-vaping

The holiday season is almost here, and while we’re enjoying festive treats and gatherings, it’s easy to overlook our dental health. Here are some easy tips to keep your teeth healthy, merry and bright this holiday season.

Treat yourself to a new toothbrush

If it’s been a while since you changed your toothbrush, now is the perfect time. Replace it every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are starting to look worn. It’s a simple gift to yourself that makes a big difference!

Timing is key

With holiday treats in abundance, it’s easy to eat more sugar. Letting it linger on your teeth can increase cavity risks, so keep your toothbrush handy for quick freshen-ups. Aim to brush 30–60 minutes after sugary or acidic foods to protect your enamel and keep your teeth in top shape.

Brush and floss regularly

Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day is your best defence against holiday cavities. If you’re on the go, carry a travel toothbrush and toothpaste with you. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in keeping your smile healthy and bright. Remember, while brushing cleans the surfaces of your teeth, flossing gets to those hard-to-reach spots in between.

Stay hydrated and choose healthy snacks

Water helps wash away sugars, food particles and acids, so keep sipping throughout the day. While holiday sweets are tempting, try to balance your indulgence with tooth-friendly snacks like cheese, fresh fruits and vegetables. Cheese is especially great as it helps neutralise acids and is good for your teeth.

We’re here for you!

Don’t let an unexpected dental issue ruin your holiday plans. We provide daily emergency appointments throughout the festive season to keep your smile in check.

 

As parents, we all dream of seeing our children’s bright, healthy smiles. But let’s face it, getting them excited about brushing and flossing can be tough. The good news is that with a touch of creativity and enthusiasm, you can transform dental care from a routine chore into a fun and engaging daily adventure for your kids.

Turn toothbrushing into a game

Who says brushing your teeth has to be a chore? Make it one of your kids’ favourite games. Start by using a fun, colourful timer or a sand timer to challenge your child to brush their teeth for the full time (ideally two minutes). To make it even more engaging, set up a reward system where they earn a sticker or a small, healthy treat each time they complete the brushing session.

Make it a family activity

When the whole family brushes together, it turns toothbrushing into a fun, shared activity instead of a solo chore. Set a specific time each day for everyone to brush their teeth together. Take turns picking your favorite song to brush along to – this makes the routine more enjoyable and helps everyone keep track of brushing for the full two minutes.

Get creative with toothbrushes and toothpaste

Sometimes, the key to excitement lies in the tiny details. Let your child to choose their own toothbrush featuring a beloved superhero, princess, or cartoon character. A toothbrush with their favourite design can make the task feel special. Let them experiment with different toothpaste flavours too. Kid-friendly options come in a variety of fun flavours like bubble-gum or fruit flavour.

Use positive reinforcement

Encouragement can be a powerful motivator. Praise your child for their excellent brushing habits and set up a reward system to keep them motivated. For example, they could earn points each day they brush and floss well, which they can then trade for a special outing or treat. To make tracking easy and fun, use a printable tooth brushing chart.

 

Check your child’s eligibility for free* dental with the CDBS

The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) gives families a great opportunity to support their children’s dental health without financial stress. This government initiative provides eligible children with up to $1,095 in dental benefits over two calendar years, covering everything from basic check-ups to more extensive treatments. By using the CDBS, you can help your children keep their teeth and gums healthy while easing the strain on your family budget. Check your eligibility and schedule regular dental visits to make the most of this valuable benefit.

Make dental care a fun and engaging part of your child’s routine will help them develop lifelong healthy habits and keep their smiles bright. Regular check-ups are essential for maintaining those healthy smiles, so book your check-up with your dentist to keep your child’s dental health in top shape.

 

*Free when services covered by the Australian Government’s Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) are bulk billed by participating Practitioners for treatments provided to eligible patients.