What does the term mean?
The community of microorganisms in the mouth and their interactions.
← All explanationsOral microbiome
What lives inside our mouths?
The oral microbiome is the community of microorganisms in the mouth, including bacteria and fungi. Many belong in a healthy mouth; their interactions and local conditions matter.
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A living environment
Teeth, the tongue and oral lining provide different habitats. Microorganisms also belong in a healthy mouth.
Communities, not isolated germs
Microorganisms can form organised deposits on teeth: biofilms. Changing conditions can favour communities associated with disease.
Health does not mean germ-free
Gentle oral care and targeted treatment address harmful deposits and disease. Removing all microorganisms is not a useful everyday goal.
At a glance
Where do they live?
On tooth surfaces, the tongue and oral lining, among other distinct habitats.
Why does it matter?
A healthy mouth is not germ-free. Conditions and microbial interactions can favour health or disease.
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Often confused
Microbiome or biofilm?
The microbiome describes the community; a biofilm describes an organised way of living on a surface. Plaque is one example.
Quick answers
Is the microbiome the same as plaque?
No. The microbiome includes the mouth's microbial community; plaque is a biofilm on tooth surfaces.
Are all oral bacteria harmful?
No. Many are normal inhabitants. Their effects also depend on their environment and interactions.
Do I need special products?
Products advertised to 'optimise the microbiome' cannot be assumed to help everyone. Symptoms and oral care should be discussed individually.
At the practice
For your consultation
A question to discuss with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:
How do deposits, saliva and my oral care affect the health of my teeth and gums?
Healthy structures are a foundation of individual treatment planning.
Oral-care questions can be considered in the context of your own situation.
Discuss oral healthChoose an appointment on DoctolibLearning for dental trainees & teamsUnderstand clinical terms and build your knowledge
Build on the simple explanation with clinical terms, key distinctions and a knowledge question.
- Microorganism
- A very small organism, such as a bacterium or fungus.
- Biofilm
- An organised microbial community on a surface.
- Dysbiosis
- Changed microbial interactions that can favour disease.
Know the difference
The microbiome refers to the community in a habitat; plaque is a particular biofilm on teeth.
Sources for further learning
Sources and context
Editorial research: 23 October 2026. This explanation covers general principles and does not replace a personal examination. Suitable treatment is discussed following individual assessment.