Dental hard tissues and oral biofilm

Dental hard tissues and oral biofilm represent a complex physiological and microbiological interface rather than a single molecular target. The hard tissues, including enamel and dentin, are primarily composed of hydroxyapatite crystals and provide the structural framework for the teeth (NIDCR, 2023). The oral biofilm, or dental plaque, is a diverse microbial community that adheres to these surfaces, protected by an extracellular polymeric substance (Marsh et al., 2011). This environment is the site of dynamic mineral exchange; when the biofilm produces acids through carbohydrate metabolism, it leads to the demineralization of the hard tissues, resulting in dental caries (StatPearls, 2023). Pharmacological interventions like fluoride interact with the hard tissues to form fluorapatite, which is more resistant to acid dissolution. Simultaneously, antimicrobial agents target the biofilm to disrupt its structure and reduce the population of acidogenic bacteria. Understanding this interface is crucial for developing treatments that balance the oral microbiome and maintain the integrity of the tooth structure. This target complex is central to the pathology of most common oral diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis.

Other names

Dental plaqueTooth enamelDentinDental biofilmOral microbiome

The mechanism of action involves the promotion of remineralization through the incorporation of ions into the crystal lattice of dental hard tissues and the disruption of microbial metabolism or biofilm adhesion through antiseptic agents (NIH, 2023).