[ELI5] If our mouth is full of bacteria, how do mouth injuries heal and not be considered lethal?

Question

[ELI5] If our mouth is full of bacteria, how do mouth injuries heal and not be considered lethal?

In: Biology

Answer 1

The bacteria in your mouth are usually expected to be there. The body is able to keep them in check. When you have an injury, like a cut inside your cheek, some of that bacteria can get into the skin and grow out of control.

In some cases, it can lead to major infections and death.

You can limit the amount of harmful bacteria by brushing your teeth and rinsing with an antiseptic. And if you have an abscess, you can drain it and kill bacteria with salt solutions and antibiotics.

But for normal, every day cuts, like you bit your lip too hard? Your body can handle a bit of it.