CHARACTERIZATION AND MORPHOLOGICAL TECHNIQUES FOR ORAL BIOFILM VISUALIZATION: STATE OF THE ART

Aim: this review analyzes the morphological methods used to identify microbial species, the adhesion mechanisms involved in biofilm formation and stability, and the efficacy of microbicidal agents against pathological biofilms. Methods: a literature review was performed to examine the main features of the oral ecosystem and the qualitative and morphological techniques used for biofilm analysis. Results: the oral microbiome is essential for oral and systemic health. Biofilm is a structured microbial community whose pathological shifts in microbial metabolism can damage host surfaces. Microscopy remains the primary tool for morphological biofilm analysis. Stereomicroscopy and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) allow detailed visualization of structure, microbial distribution, and three-dimensional architecture. Electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) enables high-resolution analysis of bacteria, the extracellular matrix and adhesion mechanisms. Advanced techniques like STEM, HR-TEM, and correlative microscopy help evaluate antibacterial strategies by visualizing biofilm disruption. Conclusions: microscopy is crucial for understanding biofilm morphology and improving targeted therapies. Further studies are needed to investigate advanced techniques and microbiological and pathological aspects of oral biofilm.