Biofilm Shifting in Periodontal Therapy

A new focus has emerged in the treatment of periodontal diseases. It is known as Biofilm Shifting.

Previous emphasis and focus of gum therapies has been on reduction of ALL oral bacteria through professional cleaning and with the use of antimicrobial rinses and medications. The problem with eradication of all oral bacteria, is that the oral environment becomes an open void, and susceptible to reinfection. Any strong pathogenic bacteria that remain will also have a greater chance of recolonization of the mouth.

Certain rinses which contain chlorhexidine or alcohol also kill the normal oral flora, which are often what we rely on to keep the "bad" bacteria at bay.

Our current goal in gum therapy is to reduce or eliminate the "bad" bacteria which are disease causing, but still keep the healthy bacteria present. This is what the concept of Biofilm Shifting is all about. Biofilm shifting changes the bacterial profile of the subgingival biofilm toward normal using focused therapies. It involves removal, reduction, or inhibition of pathogenic bacteria, while sparing good bacteria. Oral probiotics can be incorporated to keep levels of good bacteria present. Creating a favorable environment for good bacteria, while excluding reintroduction of bad bacteria may include alteration of oral pH levels to make the mouth healthier and less acidic. This is accomplished with proper nutrition and diet, and avoidance of food and drink which will increase oral acid levels.

The emphasis of Biofilm Shifting is to guide the mouth's sensitive ecosystem toward normal, and not just indiscriminately kill all oral bacteria.

Perio 360 (TM) therapy from the Jacobs Smile Center is uniquely designed to accomplish this biofilm shifting for increased long-term health of the mouth and body.