Development of an in-vitro model for oral biofilm studies

Oral biofilms generally exist in a benign state in healthy individuals; however, a shift in the microbial community exacerbated by factors such as poor oral hygiene can result in dental disease. The aim of this study was to develop reproducible biofilms of the cariogenic bacteria Streptococcus sanguinis and Streptococcus mutans on surface-characterised poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), bovine enamel and bovine dentine using a modified Robbins device (MRD) that allows control over key parameters including flow rate, shear force and temperature.