Dental Articles - Brampton
What Exactly Is Biofilm?
Posted by Braydon Dental Care on Wed, 24 Sep 2025
Don't ignore plaque! Learn what biofilm is (the slimy yellow buildup), the difference between healthy and unhealthy germs, and how to protect your enamel.
Have you ever wondered about that slimy, yellow buildup on your teeth? It's called biofilm, and understanding it is key to a healthy smile.
What is Biofilm?
Think of biofilm as a tiny, protective city for germs. It's a sticky film made of microorganisms that love to live in wet places. You can find biofilm in nature, but it also forms in your mouth.
There are two kinds of biofilm in your mouth:
- Healthy Biofilm: This type is good for you! It helps protect your mouth from bad germs.
- Unhealthy Biofilm: This kind can damage your teeth. It’s what we call plaque. When it mixes with certain things in your mouth, it can start to wear away your tooth enamel.
How Does Biofilm Form?
Biofilm starts with just a few germs that stick to a surface. They multiply and invite other types of germs to join them, creating a sticky community. This is why keeping your teeth clean is so important!
Keeping Your Mouth Healthy
Preventing unhealthy biofilm is easy if you follow these tips:
- Brush and Floss Daily: Make sure to brush with a toothpaste that has anti-bacterial ingredients and floss every day.
- Rinse with Mouthwash: Mouthwash can help reduce the amount of plaque that forms.
- Clean Your Dental Appliances: If you use a retainer, dentures, or other appliances, be sure to clean them regularly.
Treating Unhealthy Biofilm
If you have too much unhealthy biofilm, we can help!
At-Home Care:
Using special mouthwashes with ingredients like chlorhexidine can help reduce plaque.
Professional Cleanings:
The best way to get rid of excess biofilm is to come in for your regular cleaning every six months. During your appointment, our team will thoroughly clean your teeth, removing the buildup that has accumulated over time.
A Healthy Balance
Remember, you need some biofilm to stay healthy! The good kind of biofilm helps protect your mouth and body from disease. By keeping up with your daily oral routine and seeing us for regular check-ups, you’re creating the perfect environment for a healthy mouth.
If you’ve noticed any unusual yellow buildup on your teeth, please mention it at your next appointment at our Brampton office. We’ll make sure your mouth has a healthy balance of biofilm.
Prevention is the best medicine for your teeth! Stay on track with your oral hygiene to fight off unhealthy biofilm and keep your smile bright.
Dentist Brampton