The Difference Between Bacterial Colonization and Infection: A Focus on Dental Health

Understanding the difference between bacterial colonization and infection is crucial for appreciating the dynamics of our body's interaction with microbes, particularly in the context of oral health. Bacterial colonization refers to the presence of bacteria on a surface without causing disease or harm. These bacteria exist in a balanced relationship with their host, contributing to various physiological processes. Infection, on the other hand, occurs when bacteria invade tissues, multiply, and trigger an immune response, leading to symptoms of illness. This post will discuss how healthy colonization can turn into an infection and the ways to avoid it.