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Bacteria, Biofilms, and The Chemistry of the Mouth

By Samantha Sykes, RDH, MPH 

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Module Information

Module Information

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Oral Health Subjects: Anatomy, Oral Health and Overall Health, Oral Disease and Decay

Keywords: Bacteria, Biofilm, Acid-Base Reactions, Decomposition and Hydrolysis Reactions, Single Displacement Reactions

Learning Goals:

  • Understand how bacteria form protective biofilms and explain how mechanical and chemical methods work together to disrupt and remove these biofilms.
  • Understand how acids, bases, and buffers interact in the mouth and will be able to explain how changes in pH affect tooth enamel, including the processes of demineralization and remineralization.
  • Understand how decomposition and hydrolysis reactions break down food molecules during digestion and how single displacement reactions involving fluoride strengthen enamel and help protect teeth from decay.

Educational Standards

National Health Education Standards

1.12.7 Analyze the benefits of and barriers to practicing a variety of health behaviors
2.12.1 Evaluate the interrelationships and impacts of various influences and health behaviors on health and well-being

Next Generation Science Standards

HS-LS1-2 – From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes