Oral biofilm pH modulation

"Oral biofilm pH modulation" refers to the dynamic regulation of acidity (pH) within dental biofilms (microbial communities adhering to teeth). The biofilm microenvironment includes highly localized acidic pockets driven by acidogenic bacteria (notably *Streptococcus mutans*), which are major contributors to dental caries due to sustained exposure of enamel to pH values below the critical threshold for demineralization (generally pH < 5.5)[1][4][7]. Salivary buffering, bacterial ammonia generation, and host or therapeutic interventions can increase microenvironmental pH, shifting the balance away from cariogenic (disease-causing) species and favoring remineralization and oral health[2][5]. Modulating the pH of oral biofilms, including through pH-activated antimicrobials, represents a therapeutic approach rather than a singular molecular target[3][5]. The relevant mechanisms involve acid-base chemistry, microbial metabolism, and matrix compartmentalization, not action at a specific protein or receptor[1][3][4][5][7].

Other names

Modulation of oral biofilm pHOral biofilm acid-base balanceOral plaque pH regulation

pH-responsive drug release/destruction of acidic biofilms[3]; Buffering and neutralization of acid[2][5]; Modulation of biofilm composition and virulence via environmental pH[2][5]