Senior Thesis Project
Tooth Anatomy
The oral microbiome is a complex ecosystem made up of different microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. This ecosystem plays a crucial role in maintaining dental health, which, in the long run, helps maintain overall bodily health. Fluoride is a mineral most commonly and oftenly found in dental hygiene products, including toothpaste, mouthwash, and dental floss.
While fluoride is widely used in dentistry and oral health care, the precise effects on the microorganisms of the oral cavity are still currently being researched and studied. The aim of this study is to better understand these effects. Through a combination of in vitro experiments and extensive literature review, I experimented and examined how different concentrations of fluoride affects both the beneficial and potentially harmful bacteria which exist in the oral cavity.