Oral bacteria

A herbal mouthwash selectively killed off bad bacteria in the mouth while preserving the good strains, according to a new study. It's proposed as an alternative to conventional mouthwashes, which were found to kill indiscriminately and damage gum tissue.

Researchers have found an indication of depression in a slightly unexpected place – the microbiome inside our mouths. The finding opens a new route of inquiry that could lead to novel antidepressant treatments and help other ailments as well.

In a study of newlywed couples, researchers found that depression and anxiety can be passed from one spouse to the other via the oral microbiome, which is transferred during close contact, such as kissing.

A new study has found a link between the bacteria responsible for gum disease and atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It emphasizes the importance of adopting a holistic approach to medicine.