What is "dental plaque"

n. a film of mucus and bacteria deposited on the teeth that encourages the development of dental caries [syn: bacterial plaque]

Dental plaque is a biofilm or mass of bacteria that grows on surfaces within the mouth. It is a sticky colorless deposit at first, but when it forms tartar it is brown or pale yellow that is commonly found between the teeth, front of teeth, behind teeth, on chewing surface, along the gumline, or below the gumline cervical margins. Dental plaque is also known as microbial plaque, oral biofilm, dental biofilm, dental plaque biofilm or bacterial plaque biofilm. While plaque is commonly associated with oral diseases such as cavities and periodontal diseases (gum diseases), its formation is a normal process that cannot be prevented.

Dental plaque can give rise to dental caries (tooth decay) – the localised destruction of the tissues of the tooth by acid produced from the bacterial degradation of fermentable sugar – and periodontal problems such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Its progression and build up is what leads to oral problems, hence it is important to disrupt the mass of bacteria and remove it daily. Plaque control and removal is achieved with correct tooth brushing and use of interdental aids such as dental floss and interdental brushes.

Removal of dental biofilm is important as it may become acidic causing demineralization of the teeth (also known as caries) or harden into calculus (dental) (also known as tartar). Calculus cannot be removed through toothbrushing or with interdental aids and can only be removed through professional cleaning. Therefore, removal of the dental biofilm will prevent the development of caries and gum diseases.