The Oral Biofilm

A study published in the Journal of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology revealed that the average human mouth harbours more than 700 species of bacteria. These bacteria typically don't exist as single cells but instead live in communities known as biofilms. The oral biofilm is a thick and sticky layer that covers the teeth, gums, and tongue, appearing as a white, yellow, or tan coating on the tongue. If left unremoved, the biofilm matures, resulting in a complex of pathogenic bacteria that leads to oral health issues such as caries, gingivitis, and periodontitis.

Which bacteria are harmful in the oral biofilm?

It is worth noting that when the mouth is cleaned regularly and effectively, the oral biofilm and its population of bacteria are typically harmless. However, when left, they can lead to dental diseases and serious health complications.

Some of the harmful bacteria that can be found in biofilms include Fusobacterium, Streptococcus, Prevotella and Porphyromonas.

Read more below:
Fusobacterium

Fusobacterium

A recent study on the oral biofilm demonstrated that Fusobacteriumis found in the oral cavity associated with increased PD-L1 expression in oral cancer tumour samples and Fusobacteriumcan increase PD-L1 expression on oral cancer cells in vitro,”

Read Study
Streptococcus

Streptococcus

Streptococcus mutants is a type of bacteria that occurs naturally in the mouth and can accumulate on tooth surfaces at any stage of life - starting from infancy. This bacteria can cause harm as it is primarily responsible for tooth decay and the formation of cavities.

Read Study
Prevotella

Prevotella

The genus Prevotella comprises of gram-negative bacteria. These bacteria can cause respiratory tract anaerobic infections, leading to a lung abscess, aspiration pneumonia, pulmonary empyema, chronic otitis media, and sinusitis.

Read Study
Porphyromonas

Porphyromonas

Porphyromonas gingivalis is a Gram-negative pathogen and principal etiologic agent responsible for Periodontitis. Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that can lead to tooth loss and deterioration of the gingiva.

Read Study