6th Grade · Science · Activity · shared by Luke Morgan
Discover the microscopic battle between beneficial and harmful bacteria in your mouth with this free 6th Grade Science activity.
Activity: The Oral Ecosystem Countdown
Every time you speak, eat, or smile, you are using a complex biological system. Your mouth is home to a diverse community of microscopic organisms that interact with your teeth and gums. To keep this system healthy, we must understand the specific residents of this environment and how our daily choices affect them. Read the Snapshot below to prepare for your 3-2-1 Countdown.
Topic Snapshot: Oral Biology and Health
Scientists have identified several key bacteria that live in the human mouth. Streptococcus mutans is a well-known resident that consumes sugar and produces acid, which can damage teeth. In contrast, Streptococcus salivarius is often found on the tongue and helps maintain a healthy balance by competing for space against harmful species. A third type, Porphyromonas gingivalis , is associated with the health of the soft tissues and gums. These organisms live within plaque , a sticky film that constantly forms on the surfaces of your teeth.
To protect your smile, medical professionals recommend specific hygiene habits. Brushing twice a day removes the sticky plaque before bacteria can produce high levels of acid. Additionally, daily flossing cleans food and plaque from the tight spaces between teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach, preventing bacteria from gathering there.
These habits are essential because they protect your enamel , which is the hardest substance in the entire human body. Although enamel is incredibly strong and contains a high percentage of minerals, it cannot grow back once it is worn away by bacterial acid.
3-2-1 Countdown
3 Things You Learned: List three specific types of bacteria found in the oral microbiome based on the Snapshot above.
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