Oral chromogenic organic pigments and dental plaque matrix components

Oral chromogenic organic pigments and dental plaque matrix components represent the structural and aesthetic targets of various oral care interventions. The plaque matrix, primarily composed of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) such as glucans, fructans, and extracellular DNA, serves as a scaffold for microbial colonization and protects the biofilm community from host immune responses and antimicrobial agents (Bowen et al., 2018, JDR; Flemming & Wingender, 2010, Nat Rev Microbiol). Chromogenic organic pigments, including porphyrins and melanins produced by bacteria like Actinomyces and Prevotella, or tannins derived from dietary sources, accumulate within this matrix or on the tooth surface, leading to extrinsic discoloration (Pari et al., 2014, J Nat Sci Biol Med). These components are targeted by therapeutic agents such as oxidizing peroxides, which degrade organic chromophores, and surfactants or enzymes that disrupt the physical integrity of the biofilm matrix (NIH/PubChem). Management of these targets is essential for the prevention of dental caries, periodontal diseases, and the maintenance of oral aesthetics.

Other names

Dental plaque biofilm matrixExtrinsic tooth stainsExtracellular polymeric substances (EPS)Dental pellicle components

Oxidative degradation of organic chromophores, enzymatic hydrolysis of matrix polysaccharides, and surfactant-mediated biofilm disruption.