We Do Not Eat Alone: Formation and Maturation of the Oral Microbiota

Abstract

From the earliest moments of life, contact with the outside world and with other individuals invalidates the sterility of the oral cavity. The oral cavity passes from a sterility condition, that is present only during intrauterine life, to a condition in which a microbiota organizes and evolves itself, accompanying the person throughout their life. Depending on a patient's age, systemic conditions and/or oral conditions, different characteristics of the oral microbiome are shown. By verifying and analyzing this process it is possible to understand what is at the basis of the etiopathogenesis of some oral pathologies, and also the function of the oral microbiome.

Keywords: biofilm; dental calculus; dental plaque; microbiota; oral cavity; oral health; oral hygiene; oral medicine; oral surgery; tooth socket.

Figure 1

Factors that influence the oral ecosystem.