Oral diseases affect ~3.5 billion people globally, with significant health and economic impacts. While historically overlooked, the 2021 World Health Assembly resolution signals a paradigm shift in addressing oral health comprehensively. Candida albicans remains the predominant oral pathogen, though non-Candida albicans Candida species are gradually being associated with oral infections, especially in immunocompromised patients. These pathogens are able to form biofilms that increase antifungal resistance up to 1,000-fold, complicating the treatments and contributing to the rise of the antimicrobial resistance problem. Our proposal targets oral candidiasis using innovative compounds: insect peptides and polymorphic toxins with demonstrated antiCandida activity. We will: 1) Collect and characterize oral Candida isolates and biofilms 2) Select and test promising insect peptides and polymorphic toxins 3) Determine susceptibility profiles and effects on biofilm structure 4) Investigate synergistic combinations with conventional antifungals This approach aims to enhance treatment efficacy, reduce the antifungal resistance, lower socioeconomic costs, and improve patient outcomes.