This lesson introduces dental plaque and explains how it begins to form on teeth. Understanding the process helps explain why regular cleaning matters.
Dental plaque is a sticky biofilm made up of microorganisms—mostly bacteria, but also fungi—embedded in a community on surfaces in the mouth. It may also be called oral biofilm, dental biofilm, or bacterial plaque. Fresh plaque is usually colorless and can be difficult to see. If it hardens into calculus, also called tartar, it may appear brown or pale yellow.
All flashcards
What is the extracellular matrix of dental plaque?
Material surrounding plaque microorganisms, including proteins, long-chain polysaccharides, and lipids.
How does Streptococcus mutans use sucrose in plaque?
It uses glucansucrase to make sticky extracellular dextran-based polysaccharide that helps bacteria cohere.
What bacterial forms are prominent in early dental biofilm?
Early biofilm is dominated largely by Gram-positive cocci.
What do dental plaque-disclosing agents do?
Their dyes make plaque-retaining areas easier to see.
How is dental calculus removed?
A dental professional removes it; brushing and interdental aids do not remove hardened calculus.
Quiz questions
Which statement best distinguishes gingivitis from periodontitis?Answer: Gingivitis is gum inflammation; periodontitis damages tissues supporting the teeth.
What role can Fusobacterium nucleatum play in dental biofilm development?Answer: It can link early colonizers with later colonizers.
Why can plaque buildup increase the risk of dental caries after sugar consumption?Answer: Bacterial acids can demineralize tooth tissue, while plaque buildup limits their neutralization.
What is a careful interpretation of reported links between periodontal disease and conditions such as cardiovascular disease?Answer: Reported associations do not by themselves prove that periodontal disease causes those conditions.
What conclusion is supported when pets on similar diets differ in gum health according to whether they receive daily tooth brushing?Answer: Daily oral hygiene can matter; diet alone should not be relied on to control plaque.
Based on the Wikipedia article Dental plaque, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.