Biofilm
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Aggregate of microorganisms in which cells that are frequently embedded within a self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substances adhere to each other and/or to a surface.
Staphylococcus aureus biofilm on an indwelling catheter
Probable cyanobacteria in the vertical section of a silicified biofilm from the Lower Cretaceous. Very shallow hypersaline environment of the Urgonian carbonate platform of Provence, southeastern France.
Biofilm of golden hydrophobic bacteria; ceiling of Golden Dome Cave, a lava tube in Lava Beds National Monument
Five stages of biofilm development (1) Initial attachment, (2) Irreversible attachment, (3) Maturation I, (4) Maturation II, and (5) Dispersion. Each stage of development in the diagram is paired with a photomicrograph of a developing P. aeruginosa biofilm. All photomicrographs are shown to the same scale.
Dental plaque
Videos
Dental plaque is a biofilm of microorganisms that grows on surfaces within the mouth. It is a sticky colorless deposit at first, but when it forms tartar, it is often brown or pale yellow. It is commo
Biofilm
…the same organism, which, by contrast, are single cells that may float or swim in a liquid medium. Biofilms can form on the teeth of most animals as dental plaque, where they may cause tooth decay and gum disease. Microorganisms form a biofilm in response to a number of different factors, which may include cellular…
Heavy plaque
Top: typical presentation of gingivitis. Bottom: healthy gingiva.
Loss of bone due to periodontal disease
Disclosing dental plaque with disclosing tablets