Bacterial biofilm and dental enamel

The bacterial biofilm and dental enamel interface is a complex biological environment that serves as the primary site for the pathogenesis of dental caries and periodontal diseases [1, 5]. Dental enamel, a highly mineralized tissue composed of hydroxyapatite, provides the structural foundation for the attachment of the acquired salivary pellicle and subsequent microbial colonization [5]. The resulting dental plaque is a mature biofilm characterized by a protective extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix that harbors diverse microbial species, including acidogenic bacteria like Streptococcus mutans [1, 7]. These microorganisms ferment dietary sugars to produce organic acids, which lower the local pH and drive the demineralization of the enamel surface [1, 3]. Therapeutic strategies targeting this interface include the use of fluoride to enhance remineralization and form acid-resistant fluorapatite, as well as antimicrobials like chlorhexidine to reduce bacterial load and disrupt biofilm architecture [3, 7]. Emerging research focuses on precision therapies such as quorum-sensing inhibitors and matrix-degrading enzymes to manage the oral microbiome without causing widespread dysbiosis [7, 9]. Understanding the dynamic balance between demineralization and remineralization at this interface is critical for the development of effective oral health treatments [3, 6].

Other names

Dental plaqueOral biofilmTooth enamelHydroxyapatite-biofilm interfaceDental plaque-enamel interface

Inhibition of bacterial acid production, disruption of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix, promotion of hydroxyapatite remineralization, and bactericidal/bacteriostatic activity.