Have you ever considered how the bacteria in your mouth might influence your entire body? The oral microbiome—a dynamic community of over 800 bacteria, fungi, and viruses in your mouth—may play a role in maintaining not only your oral health but also other aspects of your well-being.
In the latest episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, I spoke with Brian Maurer, co-founder of Bristle Health, about the potential connections between the oral microbiome and systemic health. While research is still emerging, exploring the balance of bacteria in your mouth could offer valuable insights into your health journey.
What Is the Oral Microbiome?
The oral microbiome includes hundreds of different types of microorganisms that naturally live in your mouth. This microbial community is essential for oral health, but imbalances—such as an overgrowth of harmful bacteria—may be associated with conditions like gum disease, bad breath, and more.
Ongoing studies are investigating how oral microbiome changes may be linked to other areas of health, such as inflammation, gut health (Kumar 2019) and even brain disorders (Lathe et. al 2023). Although the research is not yet definitive, testing your oral microbiome could help you better understand potential contributing factors to your overall health picture.
How Oral Health May Relate to Systemic Conditions
1. Cardiovascular Health
Research suggests that oral bacteria may enter the bloodstream during gum inflammation, possibly contributing to systemic inflammation. Additionally, certain bacteria in the mouth are thought to influence nitric oxide production, which is important for regulating blood pressure (Bescos et al. 2020).
2. Digestive Health
Some studies indicate that oral bacteria may travel to the gut, potentially impacting the digestive microbiome. This could be a factor in conditions involving gut inflammation, although more research is needed to confirm these links (Kitamoto et al. 2020).
3. Autoimmune Conditions
Certain oral bacteria are being studied for their potential role in immune responses that may contribute to autoimmune conditions (Potempa et al. 2017). While it’s too early to draw conclusions, these findings suggest the oral microbiome may be a piece of the puzzle.
Why Consider Oral Microbiome Testing?
Oral microbiome testing is a tool that can provide personalized insights into the bacteria present in your mouth. While this information doesn’t diagnose or treat disease, it may help you and your healthcare provider explore connections between your oral and overall health. This type of testing could be particularly useful for individuals who experience:
Persistent gum issues or tooth decay
Bad breath (halitosis)
Digestive discomfort alongside oral health concerns
By identifying microbial imbalances, you may uncover areas to support with diet, lifestyle, or oral care adjustments.
Simple Steps to Support a Balanced Oral Microbiome
1. Nourish Beneficial Bacteria
Consider incorporating foods rich in nitrates, such as leafy greens and beets, which may support nitric oxide production (Wang et al. 2021).
Consider adding foods high in arginine, like lentils, poultry, and pumpkin seeds, which are being studied for their potential impact on oral bacteria (Rosier et al. 2021).
2. Choose Gentle Oral Care Products
Talk with your provider about using xylitol-based toothpaste or rinses, which some studies suggest may help reduce cavity-causing bacteria (Rosier et al. 2021).
Consider avoiding harsh antimicrobial mouthwashes that might disrupt the overall balance of bacteria in the mouth (Wang et al. 2021).
3. Stay Consistent with Daily Hygiene
Brushing and flossing regularly are essential for maintaining oral health. Using tools like electric toothbrushes may offer additional benefits by helping to disrupt plaque and biofilm (Bescos et al. 2020).
Learn More About Oral Microbiome Testing
Oral microbiome testing provides a detailed look at the bacteria in your mouth. This information can help you and your practitioner make more informed decisions about your care. If you’re curious about how this tool might fit into your overall health plan, talk to your healthcare provider.
To learn more, visit Bristle Health, or explore additional lab testing options through Rupa Health.
Take Control of Your Oral Health Today
Understanding the role of your oral microbiome is a growing area of research. While we don’t yet have all the answers, this emerging science is opening the door to new possibilities for exploring the connections between oral and overall health.
If this resonates with you, listen to or watch the episode and share it with a friend or colleague. If you're a practitioner, you can order the Bristle test for your clients by signing up for RupaHealth.com
To your health!
Warmly, Dr. Kate