The human oral microbiome represents a diverse and intricate ecosystem comprising bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa. It plays a vital role in numerous physiological processes, ranging from digestion to immunity. Recent research endeavors have focused on delineating the composition and functions of the oral microbiome. Changes in the oral microbiome have been associated with both oral diseases (such as dental caries, periodontitis, halitosis) and systemic conditions (including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer). Despite significant advancements, numerous questions about the role of the oral microbiome in health and disease remain unanswered. Further research is imperative to explore the intricate interactions between the oral microbiome and other microbiomes within the body. Additionally, there is a need to develop targeted interventions capable of selectively modulating the oral microbiome without disrupting other beneficial microorganisms. In summary, delving into the study of the human oral microbiome has the potential to revolutionize our comprehension of health and disease, opening avenues for innovative approaches to preventive and therapeutic medicine.
Oral Cavity, Microbiome, Periodontal Diseases, Cancer, Gingivitis
© The Author(s) 2024. Open Access. This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License which permits unrestricted use, sharing, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons license, and indicate if changes were made.