A new apparatus for continuous cultivation of bacterial plaque on solid surfaces and human dental enamel

A new apparatus for the continuous cultivation of mono and mixed bacterial plaque on solid surfaces is described. The features are: easy preparation and handling; freedom from technical problems and microbial contamination; self-sufficient for periods of up to 56 d; 12 samples are taken simultaneously; programmable supply inlet. Experiments were performed with Streptococcus mutans C 67-1 for mono bacterial inoculation and in combination with Veillonella alcalescens V-1 for mixed bacterial inoculations. The results showed that the controlled conditions and versatility of the apparatus make possible the study of plaque-development and lesion production on a time-dependent basis. It is concluded that the apparatus is suitable for a wide range of dental and non-dental applications.