Biofilm is often referred to as plaque – the clear sticky substance that we should brush off every day to reduce the chance of tooth decay and periodontal disease. However, a reference to biofilm often goes much deeper than that.
What Is Biofilm and Why Does It Form in the Mouth?
The mouth is made up of many naturally occurring bacteria as well as, by extension, various biofilms. These biofilms tend to build up on the teeth after some time. The mouth contains various quantities of microorganisms from time to time, some of which make it possible for people to continue to survive. While it is easy to accept all bacteria's ideas as being bad, some germs are required for ongoing health. Technically, the term "biofilm" is used to define bacteria that live in complex yet organized groups. These groups supply an environment that gives them the ability to continue to exist, safeguarding them from other viruses and germs. Therefore, biofilms are generally considered a harmless community of germs, although some of them can end up taking over and negatively impacting the gums and teeth.
When Biofilms Turn Bad
The good bacteria in the mouth essentially are designed to control the amount of oral inflammation resulting from biofilms that contain too much bad bacteria. For example, chronic gum inflammation can result when biofilms are created from too much bad bacteria. Also, tooth decay results when the harmful bacteria in your mouth is combined with an acidic environment. If this happens, the bacteria feed on the sugars and carbs in the mouth and demineralize the teeth. Therefore, according to the European Journal of Dentistry, probiotics are used, in dental science, to create more good biofilm bacteria. Also, you need to practice good oral hygiene, so you limit the biofilm in the mouth to primarily healthy bacteria.
Plaque and tartar are the end products of unhealthy biofilms. If you have not had a professional cleaning in the last six months, now is a time to make an appointment. Call us today to arrange an exam, a cleaning, and consultation.
Biofilm is often referred to as plaque – the clear sticky substance that we should brush off every day to reduce the chance of tooth decay and periodontal disease. However, a reference to biofilm often goes much deeper than that.