Cariogenic bacteria and dental biofilm

Cariogenic bacteria refer to several acid-producing, acid-tolerant microbial species (mainly Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus, Lactobacillus casei, Actinomyces, and others) that colonize the tooth surface and form a structured community known as dental biofilm or plaque[1][4][7]. Biofilm formation involves bacterial adhesion to the acquired enamel pellicle, proliferation, production of extracellular polymers (EPS), and stratification with secondary colonizers[5][6]. The biofilm matrix protects the bacteria, impedes drug penetration, and creates micro-environments of low pH after sugar consumption, which lead to enamel demineralization and eventual cavity formation[1][2][4]. Biofilm also serves as a reservoir for calcium and can promote remineralization under certain conditions.[4][5] Cariogenic biofilms are a collective, dynamic microbial target rather than a single molecular entity—they are combated therapeutically via agents targeting bacterial growth, acid production, biofilm organization, and remineralization, not via direct enzyme/receptor inhibition[3][5][6]. The concept should not be considered a canonical molecular target.

Other names

Dental plaqueOral biofilmTooth plaqueCaries-associated biofilm

Inhibition of bacterial growth and acid production Disruption of biofilm matrix Neutralization of plaque acids Promotion of remineralization