ARE WE WELCOMING A NEW ERA IN ORAL CARE?

Evolutions in microbiome science have changed our outlook on oral bacteria. Early researchers thought the mere presence of any harmful species in the mouth would lead to oral disease, but we now know that is not the case. Many bacteria have beneficial functions; what matters is maintaining the balance to prevent oral disease.

To summarise the state of the art in microbiome science and what it means for today’s clinician, Professor Kilian and colleagues published a key paper in the British Journal of Dentistry called “The Oral Microbiome - An Update for Oral Healthcare Professionals”. The paper includes expert insights on clinical scenarios where the oral microbiome might promote health or disease, and highlights useful strategies to maintain, or restore balance within, the oral microbiome. To read the full publication in detail, visit the journal website here.

As an aid for clinicians, a printable pdf (downloadable below) has summarised research progress and the implications for oral care.