New approaches to combat biofilms.

In nature, bacteria predominantly reside in structured, surface-attached communities embedded in a self-produced, extracellular matrix. These so-called biofilms play an important role in the development and pathogenesis of many infections, as they are difficult to eradicate due to their resistance to antimicrobials and host defense mechanisms. This review focusses on the biofilm-forming periodontal bacterium . Current knowledge on the virulence mechanisms underlying biofilm formation is presented. In addition, oral infectious diseases in which plays a key role are described, and an overview of conventional and new therapies for combating biofilms is given. More insight into this intriguing pathogen might direct the development of better strategies to combat oral infections.