The Mouth
Portal of Entry for Infection
- More than 500 bactarial strains have been identified in dental biofilm
- More than 150 bactarial strains have been isolated from dental pulp infections
- 37 unique and previously unknown strains of bacterail were identified in dental plaque (biofilm)
- Most oral lesions are caused by microorganisms commonly found in the month
- Microorganisms can induce extensive localized infections compromising general well being
If normal barriers are breached they may spread to other parts of the body
- Oral mucosa is one barrier; it provides critical defense against pathogens and other challenges
- Salivary secretions is another major line of defense


