{"id":37431,"date":"2025-09-01T13:08:50","date_gmt":"2025-09-01T18:08:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/apologeticspress.org\/?p=37431"},"modified":"2025-09-01T13:54:29","modified_gmt":"2025-09-01T18:54:29","slug":"the-human-oral-microbiome-a-mouthful-of-proof-for-god","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/apologeticspress.org\/the-human-oral-microbiome-a-mouthful-of-proof-for-god\/","title":{"rendered":"The Human Oral Microbiome: A Mouthful of Proof for God"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

It was September 17, 1683, when Antoni van Leeuwenhoek\u2014now considered to be the \u201cFather of Microbiology\u201d\u2014described the \u201cmany very little living animalcules\u201d that he scraped from his own mouth and examined under his microscope.1<\/sup><\/a> Since that time, the occupants of the oral cavity have continued to be the object of research, with a growing interest being manifested in more recent years by cell biologists, microbiologists, and immunologists.2<\/sup><\/a> Though those who have engaged in intensive investigation of the oral cavity often assume an evolutionary origin for the intricacies they observe, in reality, their discoveries constitute astounding evidence for a divine Creator. What follows is but a surface perusal of a small portion of that evidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microbiome and Microbiota<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The term \u201cmicrobiome\u201d was coined in 2001 by Lederberg and McCray.3<\/sup><\/a> With regard to the human mouth, it refers to the entire habitat of the microbial residents of every surface area of the oral cavity.4<\/sup><\/a> These surfaces are many\u2014including both the top (dorsum) and bottom (ventral) of the tongue, lip, teeth, maxillary vestibule, keratinized gingiva (gums), gingival sulcus (the shallow groove between the gum and the tooth surface), buccal mucosa,5<\/sup><\/a> tonsils, hard and soft palates, the throat, saliva, salivary glands beneath the tongue, and even the plaque that forms.6<\/sup><\/a> The word \u201cmicrobiota\u201d refers to the unique combination of microorganisms that exist within this complex oral topography.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over 700?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The reader is surely surprised to learn of the sheer number of distinct bacterial species that naturally inhabit the human mouth. While the actual number of bacteria, archaea,7<\/sup><\/a> fungi, viruses, and protozoa that inhabit the human mouth is unknown,8<\/sup><\/a> \u201cthe oral cavity has the second largest and diverse microbiota after the gut, harboring over 700 species<\/strong> of bacteria\u201d9<\/sup><\/a>\u2014\u201cone of the most heavily colonized parts of our bodies.\u201d10<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

These myriad species are not undesirable intruders or invaders. The oral cavity is their permanent home\u2014a home that normally maintains a fairly constant temperature of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a stable environment in which to survive.11<\/sup><\/a> Within the overall oral cavity are \u201cmany distinct microenvironments\u201d that provide unique and site-specific advantages for the various species.12<\/sup><\/a> The microbiota unquestionably belong there. In fact, our bodies live in harmony with literally millions of tiny micro-organisms that perform a variety of essential functions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In Harmony?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Do these 700+ species war with each other, making the mouth a biological warzone of conflict and carnage, inflicting sickness and suffering upon the human host? Quite the opposite. In fact, \u201cmost of the microorganisms that inhabit the oral cavity live in a symbiotic relationship.\u201d13<\/sup><\/a> The symbiotic relationship that they sustain with each other and with their human host enables ongoing fulfillment of mutual benefits.14<\/sup><\/a> Indeed, the microbes work in concert with each other to perform very intricate, specific tasks that are useful to the human host, thereby maintaining symbiotic equilibrium in a \u201cmutualistic relationship.\u201d15<\/sup><\/a> That interaction and balance among oral microorganisms aids the human body in repelling the invasion of undesirable organisms from outside the body.16<\/sup><\/a> Together they \u201cform highly regulated, structurally and functionally organized communities attached to surfaces as biofilms, with interspecies collaborations as well as antagonisms that contribute to ecologic stability.\u201d17<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As noted, an extensive variety of microbiotas and biofilms, composed of hundreds of species, are scattered among multiple sites of the oral cavity. The species within each biofilm, as well as the other biofilms, all work in harmony\u2014unmistakably designed to work<\/strong> together<\/strong> for the common good of human health. Not only do they not harm the human host, their commensal interrelationship helps keep pathogenic species in check.18<\/sup><\/a> In fact, the microbes within the oral cavity can even aid the body\u2019s immune responses outside<\/strong> the oral cavity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

That is not to say that the species never conflict with each other: \u201cThe relationship between the two bacterial species can be antagonistic or synergistic, depending perhaps on the composition of the remaining species in the biofilm or other environmental conditions.\u201d19<\/sup><\/a> Thus, even when a \u201cclash\u201d occurs, the overall well-being of the human host is the goal of the interactions and adjustments. Even when the microbiota is \u201cdisturbed\u201d by any number of possible circumstances, nevertheless, \u201cthe relationship between the oral microbiome and its host is dynamic<\/strong> and\u2026the composition of microbial communities is remarkably stable<\/strong>.\u201d20<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The entrance of pathogens from outside the system can cause problems\u2014which immediately elicit the attention of the microbiota. In fact, due to \u201cthe interplay of the host\u2019s immune system with its microbial symbionts, acute infections of the oral mucosa are rather rare<\/strong>.\u201d21<\/sup><\/a> Not only does the oral mucosa22<\/sup><\/a> serve as a physiological barrier, \u201cthe functions of immune networks within this mucosa reflect the site-specific challenges faced within the oral cavity\u201d with the ability to \u201ctrigger immune responses to the development of pathologic microbial communities.\u201d23<\/sup><\/a> The oral cavity is conspicuous for its \u201cspecialized immune-cell networks\u201d that possess the exceptional capability to respond to the constantly fluctuating environmental conditions by means of \u201ctissue-specific cues and exclusive immunologic responses that are tailored<\/strong> to the oral cavity.\u201d24<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, as is typically the case, we humans are \u201cour own worst enemy.\u201d We can be responsible for instigating the instability of our own oral microbiome. Scientists list a number of factors that interfere with that stability and hamper the effectiveness of microbial communities. These culprits include poor oral hygiene, excessive use of antibiotics, modern diet trends, alcohol, and tobacco.25<\/sup><\/a> Incredibly, researchers have come to believe that disrupting the delicate balance of our oral microorganism residents can contribute to additional bodily ailments, including asthma, diabetes, allergies, cancer, and obesity.26<\/sup><\/a> What\u2019s more, while various types of toothpaste typically reduce harmful bacteria, they can also suppress the beneficial bacteria. Likewise, mouthwashes that claim to kill 99% of bacteria would seem to be at variance with what scientists have discovered concerning the crucial role played by the oral microbiome. Mouthwashes can also significantly reduce the ability of saliva to serve as a buffer against tooth decay and disease 27<\/sup><\/a> In fact, some studies suggest that the use of antibacterial mouthwash can \u201cincrease blood pressure as a result of its inhibitory effect on the oral microbiome.\u201d28<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Inter-Communication?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As researchers continue to dig deeper, they discover new layers of complexity. It turns out that the synergism among the microorganisms includes actual communication<\/strong> between species by means of QS\u2014\u201cquorum sensing\u201d:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Bacteria within a biofilm can communicate with each other by producing, detecting and responding to small diffusible signal molecules in a process called quorum sensing, which confers benefit for host colonization, biofilm formation, defense against competitors and adaptation to changes in the environment.29<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

These signaling molecules are secreted by the bacteria themselves in order to engage in nutritional and signaling interactions with other bacteria, thereby acting in concert for the benefit of the human host.30<\/sup><\/a> Such intelligent synergism could not have evolved via mindless happenstances of alleged eons of evolutionary time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Their Purpose?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

But what, specifically, do these millions of microorganisms do<\/strong>? We are in constant contact with all types of germs, bacteria, and other microorganisms\u2014which enter our mouths. \u201cThe oral microbiome\u2026forms an ecosystem that maintains health in a state of equilibrium,\u201d31<\/sup><\/a> making it \u201ccrucial in maintaining oral as well as systemic health.\u201d32<\/sup><\/a> Scientists have discovered that this complex ecological community performs astonishing activities that regulate oral health, contributing to \u201ccritical metabolic, physiological and immunological functions.\u201d33<\/sup><\/a> Incredibly, though only 1 out of 10 cells in our bodies is human, this prolific microbial society is responsible for performing \u201cmany biological functions that we could not perform on our own and protect[s] us from invasion by pathogenic microorganisms.\u201d34<\/sup><\/a> Hence, resident bacteria are \u201ccrucial for maintaining homeostasis.\u201d35<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00a0Keep in mind that each human body is genetically unique and different from all others. If a supernatural Creator is responsible for the existence of human bodies as well as the multitude of living organisms that inhabit those bodies, one would fully expect to discover symbiotic harmony.36<\/sup><\/a> Such is certainly the case with the interrelationships among the bacteria and between the bacteria and the human host. Complex relationships between humans and microbes facilitate human health while simultaneously providing the means for the microbes to survive and flourish. Humans and microorganisms literally depend on each other.37<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Further, \u201cthe variable microbiome\u2026is exclusive to an individual.\u201d38<\/sup><\/a> Consequently, diversity and variation of species within the microbiome are \u201cindividual specific and site specific.\u201d39<\/sup><\/a> \u201cRather than being fixed, the composition of the oral microbiota changes throughout life consistent with the oral cavity being a dynamic microbial environment.\u201d40<\/sup><\/a> So the oral microbiota differs from person to person.41<\/sup><\/a> The microbial communities are programmed to react to varying environmental conditions by \u201cmodifying their species composition and population size.\u201d42<\/sup><\/a> Some oral bacteria species are site specific at one or multiple sites within the mouth. Others are subject-specific.43<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In fact, the bacteria possess on their surface \u201cadhesins.\u201d Adhesins are\u00a0proteins that enable the bacteria to attach to various surfaces in the mouth.\u00a0Consequently, the bacteria will select for colonization those oral surfaces that possess complimentary receptors that will adhere to and bind with their own specific adhesins.44<\/sup><\/a> This site specialization is essential for the formation of a biofilm in which the bacteria can colonize and grow. \u201cOnce established, the new community of bacteria then begins the process of replication, maturation, and formation of a complex biofilm that can contain hundreds of species.\u201d45<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If these striking realities were not enough to convince us of divine design, consider the fact that each species of bacteria can differ markedly in its purpose and function. As previously noted, some bacteria in the mouth specifically inhibit pathogens, i.e., those bacteria that cause disease. These bacteria resist colonization by pathogens. One species, for example, manifests \u201cdirect antagonism against oral pathogens.\u201d46<\/sup><\/a> Another such species actually produces hydrogen peroxide in large quantities which, in turn, hampers the growth of a harmful bacterial species.47<\/sup><\/a> What\u2019s more, while diet affects the oral microbiome, scientists have come to suspect that it works the other way as well. Oral cavity microorganisms can influence a person\u2019s dietary preferences and, thus, \u201cmodulate the expression levels of taste receptors in the mouth.\u201d48<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Saliva<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As an active and integral member of the oral microbiome, the origin of human saliva is inexplicable from an evolutionary standpoint. Its sophistication and complexity alone constitute proof of its divine design. Saliva provides a multi-purpose function for the human mouth and body\u2014including lubrication, temperature, and digestion.49<\/sup><\/a> Yet, apart from these vital functions, saliva is a critical and essential component in the efficient functioning of the oral microbiome. It serves as \u201ca protective system that limits the type of bacteria that can live in the mouth.\u201d50<\/sup><\/a> \u201cSaliva is used by oral biofilms as a delivery system, bringing nutrients, peptides, and partially dissolved carbohydrates.\u201d51<\/sup><\/a> Human saliva \u201ckeeps the bacteria hydrated and also serves as a medium for the transportation of nutrients to microorganisms.\u201d52<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Saliva contains components\u2014including enzymes, proteins, and glycoproteins\u2014that provide the central source of nutrition for microorganisms. As many as 108<\/sup> microorganisms have been found in a single milliliter of saliva\u2014an average of 100 million bacteria.53<\/sup><\/a> At the same time, saliva also contains elements that possess antimicrobial action.54<\/sup><\/a> In addition to these salivary components, the composition of the microbial communities in the mouth are affected by the \u201cvariation in the amount and velocity of salivary flow.\u201d55<\/sup><\/a> In fact, salivary flow, together with oxygen concentration, nutrient availability, and gingival crevicular fluids, creates \u201cspatial gradients,\u201d that further demonstrate the complicated nature of the oral cavity and its inhabitants\u2019 interaction with the human host.56<\/a> <\/sup>Together, saliva and bacteria even protect tooth surfaces against acid.57<\/sup><\/a> Indeed, saliva\u2019s multi-pronged properties help regulate and maintain a balanced oral microbiome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Despite the amazing number of discoveries that have accumulated through the years, despite the progress that has been made in an effort to unravel and understand the marvelous mysteries of the human oral microbiome, when all is said and done, \u201clittle is known about the microflora of the healthy oral cavity.\u201d58<\/sup><\/a> As always, the ignorance of man must bow to the intricacy and complexity of God\u2019s handiwork.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How may such intricate, complicated, profound, extensive, mind-boggling symbiotic interrelationships be explained from an evolutionary perspective? \u201cWell, over a period of millions of years, humans and the various organisms co-evolved a mutual dependency.\u201d This \u201cexplanation\u201d is nonsensical and meaningless. The myriad microorganisms and the human host needed each other from the beginning<\/strong> of their existence. How did the hundreds of species come into existence in the first place? How did they then \u201cdecide\u201d to find an evolved human and gain entrance into that human\u2019s mouth? How did species that are antagonistic to each other come to inhabit the oral cavity together? Was a microorganism convention conducted to discuss and decide the matter?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

FACT: Every single one of these microorganisms\u2014as well as their human hosts\u2014possess concise design variables that prove<\/strong> the inability of gradual mutation and natural selection to function as causative agents. Can such design, complexity, order, purpose, and intelligence come out of mindless, evolutionary chaos? To ask is to answer. The Truth: God is the causative agent: \u201cIn the beginning, God created<\/strong>\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Virtually with one accord, the scientists who have spent years of their lives exploring the layered intricacies of the human oral microbiome inevitably feel compelled\u2014perhaps unwittingly\u2014to use terminology that tacitly implies its divine intelligent design:<\/p>\n\n\n\n