Anaerobic Bacteria (Oral)

Anaerobic bacteria in the mouth are species that survive and multiply without oxygen and are commonly found in dental plaque, especially below the gum line, within deep gum pockets, and inside decayed or necrotic root canals. These organisms include a variety of obligate and facultative anaerobes—such as Porphyromonas, Prevotella, Fusobacterium and Treponema species—that form complex biofilms and stimulate inflammatory responses that can damage gum tissue and the supporting bone.

Clinically, oral anaerobic bacteria are major contributors to conditions such as gingivitis, periodontitis, endodontic infections and dental abscesses, and they can also cause persistent bad breath. Management typically involves mechanical removal of biofilm through improved oral hygiene and professional cleaning (scaling and root planing), root canal treatment for infected teeth, and in some cases targeted antibiotic therapy alongside dental treatment to reduce bacterial load.