Oral biofilm microorganism

Oral biofilm microorganisms are diverse populations of bacteria (and some fungi and protozoa) that form organized, surface-associated communities known as **oral biofilms** or **dental plaque**[1][2][4]. These biofilms contain hundreds of species, including early colonizers such as *Streptococcus* spp., and late colonizers such as *Porphyromonas gingivalis*, *Tannerella forsythia*, and *Treponema denticola*, which interact within the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) matrix comprising exopolysaccharides, proteins, lipids, inorganic ions, and extracellular DNA[1][4]. Biofilm formation is a multi-step process involving initial adhesion, colonization, maturation, and dispersion[3]. These microorganisms confer emergent properties such as increased tolerance to antimicrobials, immune modulation, and spatial heterogeneity, making oral biofilms resilient and challenging to treat[1][2]. Dysbiotic biofilms are implicated in both localized diseases—such as dental caries, periodontitis, and gingivitis—as well as systemic conditions including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases[1]. Therapeutic approaches target the structure, function, and microbial communication systems—such as quorum sensing—within biofilms using antiseptics, antibiotics, natural products, and physical disruption, with considerable challenges around resistance and ecological balance[1][2][4].

Other names

Dental biofilm microorganismDental plaque microorganismOral plaque bacteria

Disruption of cell membranes; Inhibition of biofilm matrix synthesis; Inhibition of microbial metabolism; Inhibition of adhesion to surfaces; Quorum sensing inhibition; Enzymatic degradation of exopolysaccharides