Although you might cringe at the thought of germs hiding in your mouth, it’s home to 500 to 650 different species of oral bacteria. They live in biofilms that cover your teeth, tongue, cheeks, and other tissues. While many people view all bacteria as bad, some are crucial for a healthy smile. The amount of harmful pathogens in your mouth fluctuates throughout the day. Here’s what you need to know about the number of bacteria in your mouth and how you can control it.