Microbiology of Oral Biofilm-Dependent Diseases: Have We Made Significant Progress to Understand and Treat These Diseases?

Abstract

The oral microbiome plays a crucial role in the establishment and maintenance of oral health. Major disturbances in the interactions between this microbiome, the microenvironment, and the host may lead to the development of oral diseases. A large proportion of infectious diseases that affect humans are caused by organisms living in biofilms. This is also the case for oral infections such as dental caries, periodontal diseases, and endodontic and fungal infections. In this review, new concepts regarding the role of the oral biofilm in the etiopathogenesis of these diseases are presented, and a more ecological view of pathogenic communities as causative agents of oral diseases is discussed. We believe that a better understanding of oral biofilm physiology and ecology will provide insight for the development of new cost-effective diagnostic tools, as well as preventive and therapeutic strategies for the management of these infections.

Dental Plaque Removal by Ultrasonic Toothbrushes

“…Dental plaque (also called microbial plaque, oral biofilm, dental biofilm) includes highly organized diverse microbial communities attached to the surface of hard tooth tissues. Oral biofilm's role in the development of various diseases of the oral cavity and throat, including caries, periodontal diseases, endodontic infections, tonsillitis, alveolitis, among others, determines the clinical and biological relevance of studying this system [1]. Moreover, due to its peculiar "biogeography", it is very suitable as a model of an integrated biological microecosystem.…”

Low-Temperature Plasma as an Approach for Inhibiting a Multi-Species Cariogenic Biofilm

“…Dental caries are caused by a combination of factors, including the frequent consumption of sucrose combined with a dental biofilm composed of acid-producing microorganisms [5,6]. The cariogenic dental biofilm is formed by highly organized diverse microbial communities enmeshed in a polysaccharide-rich matrix and adheres to the dental surface [7]. The microbial community is linked to a chain of interactions that can regulate pathogenicity and resistance to antibiotics [8].…”

Oral Biofilm and Its Impact on Oral Health, Psychological and Social Interaction

“…The oral cavity is a highly dynamic environment that communicates the human body to the external environment [1]. The human oral cavity encompasses different habitats such as tongue, teeth, gingival sulcus, hard and soft palates, and tonsils [2].…”

“…Similarly, bacteria within the oral cavity live primarily as complex, polymicrobial biofilms [10]. Different habitats in the oral cavity allowed the existence of distinct ecological niches that promote colonization of a wide variety of microorganisms [1]. Oral cavity is an ideal place where microbes, oral fluids, nutrients, soft and hard tissues are interacting and produce unique ecosystems [11,12].…”

“…This surface-attached microbial community is responsible for many oral diseases. Major disturbances in the interactions between oral microbes, the microenvironment, and the host may lead to the development of oral diseases [1]. For instance, the dynamic balance between commensals and opportunistic pathogens can be disrupted by frequent sugar consumption and poor oral care, which promotes the development of virulent biofilms in close proximity to the tooth surface [19].…”