Oral microbiome in practice: Actionable insights with Dr. Thompson

In this continuing discussion with Dr. Doug Thompson, you will delve into why many oral health professionals still underestimate the profound impact of oral biofilms. It remains poorly understood and underappreciated that an unhealthy, pathogenic biofilm in the mouth can significantly affect far more than just the teeth and gums.

This segment examines why a problematic oral biofilm can contribute to serious conditions like brain health issues, heart disease, cancer, and even diabetes. It will also highlight why relying solely on visual inspection or "cleaning" is insufficient, emphasising the critical need for a deeper understanding of these microbial communities and their connection to systemic health.

Key takeaways

From non-specific to specific plaque hypothesis
Dr. Thompson explains the evolution from the non-specific plaque hypothesis (where abundant plaque was thought to cause disease) to the specific plaque hypothesis (where certain elements within plaque were held responsible), leading to today's understanding of oral dysbiosis and pathogenic biofilms.

Biofilm can be a systemic threat
An unhealthy oral biofilm can affect brain health, heart health, cancer development, diabetes, and has been linked to 57 different systemic diseases.

Accurate diagnosis is crucial
Simply looking at visible buildup is insufficient. Dental hygienists should use periodontal probing (especially looking for bleeding on probing) to identify a breach in the gum barrier, indicating the presence of a pathogenic biofilm and bacteria entering the bloodstream.

Get a complete patient health history
Dental professionals should provide and thoroughly review medical questionnaires. Systemic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and even pregnancy both influence and are influenced by oral health. A complete health history is vital for effective treatment and prevention.

Educate for better home care
Patient compliance in home care starts with education. When patients understand the damaging effects of accumulated biofilm, they become more motivated to participate in their own "debridement" through appropriate brushing, interdental cleaning (e.g. with interdental brushes), and targeted rinses for diagnosed dysbiosis.

"For young dentists looking to differentiate their practice and offer more valued services — that's what wellness dentistry is all about: guiding and teaching people what's important, because once a dental hygienist understands it, they will never let a patient sit in their chair and walk out with disease without telling them about it."

Managing periodontal and cavity disease is a team sport
It involves dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants. When hygiene teams are well-informed about biofilm and its systemic connections, they can literally help save lives by preventing severe systemic diseases and improving overall patient wellness.

An opportunity to differentiate your practice
For young dentists, embracing a health-focused agenda and integrating this deeper understanding of oral-systemic connections provides a significant opportunity to differentiate their practice, offer more valuable services, and truly make people healthy.