Analysis of oral microbiome characteristics and their correlation with oral health diseases

To investigate the relationship between oral microbiome characteristics and oral health status, examining microbial diversity and the prevalence of specific bacterial genera. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 154 patients who underwent oral examinations at our hospital from January 2023 to December 2023. Based on routine oral examinations and medical history inquiries, patients were divided into oral health group (n = 71) and oral health disease group (n = 83). Oral samples were collected and analyzed using next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics to assess microbial diversity and abundance. Key demographic and behavioral factors were recorded, and statistical analyses determined oral microbiome characteristics with oral health. The oral health disease group had significantly higher average age, smoking rates, body mass index, alcohol use, family history of oral diseases, and worse oral health indicators (e.g., plaque, gum inflammation, calculus, periodontal status, decayed/missing teeth, and decayed, missing, and filled teeth scores). They also showed lower microbial diversity (Shannon, Chao1, and evenness indices) and reduced levels of protective bacteria (Streptococcus and Actinomyces). In contrast, the oral health group had higher flossing rates, more caries-free individuals, and greater microbial diversity. The Shannon, Chao1, and evenness indices were inversely linked to oral disease, while the Simpson Index (measuring dominance) was positively correlated. Protective bacteria were negatively linked to disease, whereas harmful bacteria (Fusobacterium and Prevotella) were positively correlated. Our findings highlight decreased microbial diversity as a significant factor in oral diseases, suggesting that maintaining a diverse oral microbiome was crucial for oral health.