Did you know that the average person has 100 to 200 species of bacteria living inside their mouth? There is no need to be alarmed, as these bacteria usually have very little impact on our health. For the average person the only observable effects of these bacteria will be the build up of plaque on the surface of teeth and bad breath. Bacteria in the mouth thrive when food is left to build up for an extended period of time. When this is allowed to happen, the bacteria begins to erode teeth. This is especially true for foods containing carbohydrates, such as sugars and starches. The way to protect yourself from tooth erosion and other oral infections is to maintain proper oral hygene.

Over 700 different species of bacteria have been identified to be living inside human mouths. Every person has a different make up of bacteria in their mouth. In addition, certain species of bacteria tend to prefer to concentrate in different locations in the mouth. It is interesting to note that recent research has shown that the presence of certain bacteria inside a mouth can be an early indicator of certain infections. As research in this area progresses, oral ecology testing may become more prevelant. But in the meantime disturbing the organization of the bacterial colonies by brushing and flossing is essential for good oral hygiene.