Making the Invisible Visible: SEM Microscopy
Maps Oral Environments

Dental biofilm, more commonly known as plaque, is a layer of bacteria that live and grow in the mouth. When not addressed, dental biofilm buildup can lead to oral health issues such as gingivitis, which has been associated with a variety of systemic health conditions.

Sometimes, big-picture thinking requires subatomic vision. In these cases, our analytical and measurement experts are using advanced technology such as scanning electron microscopes (SEMs) to gather insights. SEM technology helps us create detailed maps of subatomic environments, making the invisible visible. By focusing a beam of electrons over a sample surface, we observe how the electrons react to collect information about shape and composition.

Today, P&G R&D experts are digging deeper, looking at the ways biofilm bacteria communicate with other fellow microorganisms and pathogens throughout the body, and what bodily responses could be triggered by the invisible communication. SEM technology enables us to better understand how these microorganisms interact with each other, which helps us develop solutions that prevent the accumulation of potentially harmful bacteria in the first place.