Phone: 
Oral Bacteria and Illness
Posted October 3, 2014 by Wager-Evans Dental
Research Project
A very intensive and complicated research project that took place at UT Austin studied all the genetic material of the bacterial communities. Scientists have been able to identify 10,000 different bacterial species living in the human body–each human body. Microbes, particularly bacteria, outnumber actual human cells by 10 to 1 according to research. A five year, $115 million research project conducted by the National Institute of Health (NIH) identified this human microbiome.
Oral Bacteria
The research study at UT Austin focused mainly on oral pathogenic bacteria and oral benign bacteria. It has been realized that pathogenic bacteria can shift into a diseased state and such shifts can be linked to diseases such as Crohn’s disease, diabetes, and periodontitis. If a way to assess the behavior of the oral bacterial community can be developed, certain biomarkers can be used to determine that a person might be progressing from a healthy to a diseased state and possibly prevent it or reverse it.
According to the study, bacteria can be rewired simply by feeding it something other than what it normally feeds on. Changing the diet can change the bacteria. Therefore, pathogenic bacterial communities that rewire themselves to be harmful might also be rewired for health.
What It Means
Such findings indicate there may be easier and better ways to prevent, or reverse diseases such as diabetes, Crohn’s disease, periodontitis, and other diseases that have been associated with oral health.
About Your Reno Dentists
Dr. William Wager, Dr. Brian Evans, and our highly experienced team at Wager Evans Dental are devoted to our patients and their families, and dedicated to providing first-rate dental care in a comfortable, inviting environment. Located in Reno, we proudly welcome residents from Spanish Springs, Sparks, Incline Village, Dayton, Fernley, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation or your next dental appointment, visit our office, or contact us today by calling (775) 800-4845.
