Dental plaque and biofilm matrix (EPS matrix)

Dental plaque is a complex, multi-species oral biofilm embedded within a self-produced extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix. This matrix, composed primarily of polysaccharides (glucans and fructans), proteins, and extracellular DNA, provides structural stability and protects resident microorganisms from environmental stresses, host immune responses, and antimicrobial agents (Bowen et al., 2018, PubMed). In the presence of fermentable carbohydrates, acidogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans within the biofilm produce organic acids that lower the local pH, leading to the demineralization of tooth enamel and the development of dental caries (StatPearls, 2023). Furthermore, the persistent accumulation of plaque at the gingival margin triggers a chronic inflammatory response in the surrounding tissues, which is the primary driver of gingivitis and can progress to periodontitis and systemic complications (NIH/NIDCR, 2022). Therapeutic strategies targeting the biofilm matrix aim to disrupt its physical integrity, inhibit the enzymatic synthesis of EPS components, or enhance the penetration of bactericidal agents to effectively manage oral infections and maintain dental health.

Other names

Oral biofilmDental plaqueExtracellular polymeric substance matrixDental biofilm matrixMicrobial biofilm

Disruption of the extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix, inhibition of bacterial adhesion to the acquired pellicle, inhibition of glucosyltransferase (GTF) enzymes responsible for polysaccharide synthesis, and direct antimicrobial activity against biofilm-resident microorganisms.