June 22nd, 2009
Both periodontal disease and tooth decay (or gingivitis) is caused by bacteria.
Bacteria can be divided into two types: aerobic – those that live off and reproduce in air – mostly beneficial and anaerobic – those that live in the absence of air – mostly pathological.
There are hundreds of different species of bacteria in the mouth. There is no other place in or on the male or female body that houses this diversity of bacteria. The mouth is a dark, moist, acidic environment with a constant warm temperature and a steady supply of carbohydrates. These are ideal bacteria growing conditions – particularly in between teeth and under the gum line.
