Oral Ecology - Bacterial Growth

Bacterial Growth

Numerous kinds of bacteria grow in the mouth. “They are competing for food and places to grow” and the many hard surfaces in themouth provide an ideal place for bacteria and biofilms to grow and reproduce. Unlike most other places in or on the body, the mouth does not desquamate (shed). A tooth’s distinct surface and stagnant nature makes it optimal for populations and growth of micro-organisms and bacteria, resulting in dental plaque. To grow and flourish in the mouth, biofilms go through four main stages of growth. First, bacteria must be deposited from saliva onto a surface where it can attach. Then the bacteria, or micro-organisms, grow and replicate. Since bacteria can grow exponentially in short periods of time, it can quickly and easily create biofilms. Third, the biofilm matures and accumulates more mass on the surface. Bacteria can continue to divide and grow by binary fission until nutrients begin to run out or their growth is inhibited. When this happens there is the final stage, the dispersal or detachment, causing the death of the bacteria. Some oral bacteria, Streptococcus gordonii for example, cannot last for long periods without nutrients, while other types of bacteria can survive for weeks. While in their prime, biofilms can cause major damage to a person’s teeth and gums. Though damaging, biofilms can be partly removed by brushing and flossing and “some of it comes off with rinsing or eating.” We never really lose all of it because it is constantly being replenished by our own saliva. Bacteria can then reattach and start to grow and the cycle continues. Bacteria and its growth are two of the principal components of oral ecology.