Complexity of Denture Plaque Biofilms

Background: This article provides an overview of denture plaque as both a microbiota community and a biofilm. The most promising strategies to ascertain the differences between biofilms formed by commensal populations and those related to increased pathogenesis and persistent infections This literature review covers the microbial communities colonizing dentures and their relationship to oral health. Supported by in vivo and in vitro studies, we highlight emerging–targeting strategies for physical and mechanical therapies intended to limit biofilm formation. Nevertheless, many challenges to eradicating mature biofilms are discussed. Conclusions: Oral biofilms in the denture wearer can be controlled with daily hygiene but cannot be totally eradicated. To prevent the pathogenesis of denture biofilm, the biomass on the denture surface and the bioburden in the oral cavity must be reduced focusing on not only the inhibition of putative pathogens, but also interference with environmental factors that drive selection and enrichment. Clinical implications: An effective oral hygiene regimen targeting dentures, saliva planktonic cells, mucosa, and the remaining teeth, whether or not they are affected by periodontal diseases, is necessary to control biofilm, particularly in the presence of many general diseases.