The Healthy Oral Microbiome: A Changing Ecosystem throughout the Human Lifespan

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Human Physiology
• Symbiotic Relationships

Background:

• Microorganisms form complex symbiotic relationships with hosts, aiding adaptation and evolution.
• Understanding the human endogenous microbiota offers insights into physiology and disease mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review data on the oral microbiome's composition and function across different ages.
• To highlight methodological inconsistencies and areas needing validation in oral microbiome analysis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current data on oral microbiome composition and functionality.
• Discussion of factors influencing oral microbiome development and changes across the lifespan.

Main Results:

• Oral microbiome acquisition is influenced by birth and feeding practices; adolescence brings significant shifts.
• Adult oral microbiomes show stable signatures, with minor changes in aging populations.
• A resilient core oral microbiome community persists to maintain homeostasis.

Conclusions:

• The oral microbiome is a dynamic ecosystem modulated by various factors from infancy to old age.
• Standardization of methods and multidisciplinary diagnosis are crucial for understanding host-microbiome interactions and managing oral dysbiosis.