The Importance of the Oral Microbiota in Human Systemic Diseases

This paper addresses the importance of the oral microbiota in human systemic diseases, considering its relevance to dentistry and general health. The aim of this study was to synthesize and critically analyze recent scientific evidence on the oral microbiota, its dissemination pathways, and its role in the pathophysiology of systemic conditions. To this end, a narrative literature review was conducted using the PubMed database, covering studies published within the last five years related to oral dysbiosis, bacterial translocation, and their systemic effects. The evidence demonstrates consistent associations between alterations in the oral microbiota and cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, Alzheimer's disease, inflammatory bowel diseases, colorectal cancer, liver disorders, and autoimmune diseases. The involvement of microorganisms such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum stands out, along with bacterial dissemination mechanisms through hematogenous and enteric pathways, which trigger inflammatory processes, alterations in intestinal permeability, and modulation of the immune response. The interplay between the oral and intestinal microbiomes directly contributes to the development and progression of these pathologies. It is concluded that maintaining oral homeostasis and providing early treatment for oral conditions are essential for preventing and controlling systemic complications.