Biofilm models and methods of biofilm assessment

Endodontic microbes dwell within the infected root canal system as surface-adherent biofilm structures. In order to simulate this in vivo situation, a variety of in vitro biofilm models are currently used in Endodontics for different microbiological experiments. Unfortunately a cogent selection of the best models to be used for a particular research application has not been obtained. This article outlines various factors to be considered while developing biofilm models in Endodontics. Different in vitro endodontic biofilm models, devices used to generate biofilms, and biofilm assays used to analyze these biofilm structures qualitatively and quantitatively are also presented in this article.