Dental bacterial biofilm

Dental bacterial biofilm, often referred to as dental plaque, is a complex, multi-species microbial community embedded in a self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) that adheres to tooth surfaces (StatPearls, 2023). This biofilm serves as a protective environment for bacteria, shielding them from host immune responses and systemic antimicrobial agents (NIH, 2021). Its biological function involves metabolic cooperation among diverse species, which can lead to the fermentation of dietary carbohydrates and the subsequent production of organic acids (PubMed, 2022). The resulting localized drop in pH promotes the demineralization of tooth enamel, leading to dental caries (Journal of Oral Microbiology, 2020). Furthermore, the accumulation of biofilm at the gingival margin triggers inflammatory responses, contributing to the development of gingivitis and chronic periodontitis (NIH, 2021). Therapeutic strategies focus on mechanical removal, chemical disruption of the EPS matrix, and the use of antimicrobial agents like chlorhexidine and fluoride to inhibit bacterial growth and metabolism (Cochrane Database, 2017).

Other names

Dental plaqueOral biofilmMicrobial plaqueDental plaque biofilm

The mechanism of action for agents targeting dental biofilms involves the disruption of bacterial cell walls and membranes, inhibition of bacterial metabolic enzymes such as enolase to reduce acid production, and the prevention of initial bacterial attachment to the salivary pellicle.