Dental Biofilm: The Hidden Colony on Your Teeth and Why You Should Care

Every morning, dental biofilm forms on your teeth. You brush and rinse, yet by noon a thin, sticky film returns. This organised microbial community is more than just plaque. It begins when salivary proteins coat your enamel, creating a base for bacteria like Streptococcus mutans. Within 48 hours, these early colonisers recruit other species and build a matrix that feels rough or chalky on your teeth. A balanced biofilm can protect your mouth by supporting good bacteria and regulating pH. But a sugar-rich diet or poor hygiene lets harmful species thrive. This leads to enamel erosion, cavities and gum disease as acids erode teeth and inflammation sets in. The best defence is mechanical removal. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss to disrupt the film. Antibacterial rinses help but don’t replace brushing. For hardened deposits, visit a dentist for professional scaling every six months.

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