ORAL (PUBLIC) HEALTH CHALLENGES

Dental plaque (also known as "biofilm") is made up of bacterial microorganisms intermingled with compounds such as saliva and food debris. It is the main cause of the development of caries, as well as other oral pathologies (gingivitis, periodontal disease). The speed of formation and the location of plaque are different depending on the individual and the bacterial species. In fact, the characteristics of the oral microbiota are interrelated with the immune status of the host and its diet; there is a continuous balance between protective and pathological factors. Consequently, the analysis of the usual oral ecosystem against the attack of potential pathogenic bacterial agents is a key factor to prevent, control or eradicate this disease in the future.