Ronald C. McGlennen, M.D., President & Medical Director of Access Genetics, delivers an interesting overview of oral issues, discussing the microbiome and bacteria. In addition to his work with Access Genetics, Dr. McGlennen is also the Associate Professor of Pathology at the University of Minnesota Medical School. Dr. McGlennen is board certified in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology, and by the American Board of Medical Genetics with a Specialty in Clinical Molecular Genetics as well. The internationally-recognized expert in Molecular Biology and Genetics discusses his thoughts on the oral microbiome, periodontal disease, and conditions of the mouth. Dr. McGlennen states that the microbiome has earned its place as an organ in our bodies and must be recognized for its role that is central to good health. Changes in the gut flora can provide answers to intestinal health, and the microbiome truly holds many answers to medical issues. In regard to bad bacteria, he states, much of it comes from our environment—intimate contact, foods, surfaces, etc. He explains how, over time, due to age and lack of exercise etc., we move into a state of dysbiosis, which is essentially a microbial imbalance on or inside the body—such as an impaired microbiota. Dr. McGlennen discusses the ways in which our microbiome can be affected, and he delves into an overview of periodontal disease and its causes. He discusses disease markers and pathogens, and the indicators of disease.  The doctor provides intricate detailed information on gum disease, plaque build up, bad bacteria in the mouth, other specific detrimental issues of the mouth, and mouth bacteria treatment. He discusses the eleven bacteria that make up the ‘quantitative DNA analysis’ and how they can utilize this information to understand cumulative bacterial load, and to grasp how to best provide treatments and therapies. Dr. McGlennen has published over 70 important scientific articles and book chapters and he is the distinguished editor of five journals. In this podcast: What is a quantitative DNA analysis, and how can it help you on your path to better health? What are the effects of microbial imbalance? How does a body connect with bacteria?