Use of enzymes to detach surface‐bound biopolymers and bacterial deposits was investigated. Model systems consisting of amylose gels andS.mutansbacterial deposits adsorbed on glass were treated with commercial preparations of amylase and mutanase, respectively. In non‐agitated systems, complete detachment could be obtained, but only after extended incubation periods and with fairly high levels of enzyme. Overlay with a chemically distinct material, gelatin, obstructed detachment. These results suggest a need for commercial enzyme preparations of higher specific activity in systems where the nature of the key bonds to be cleaved is known and, in multi‐strata systems, inclusion of enzymes specific for each chemically‐distinct component.