Dental plaque

Dental plaque is a structured biofilm of microorganisms that adheres to tooth surfaces. Its metabolism and interaction with gum tissues can contribute to tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Dental pellicle: A thin film of salivary proteins and other molecules that forms on tooth surfaces. This conditioning film forms first and provides binding sites for plaque microorganisms.
Biofilm: A community of microorganisms attached to a surface and embedded in a self-produced matrix. Dental plaque is a biofilm specialized for tooth surfaces.
Toothbrushing: The mechanical cleaning of teeth with a toothbrush, usually using toothpaste. Brushing disrupts plaque on accessible tooth surfaces.
Supragingival plaque: Dental plaque located on tooth surfaces above the gumline. This plaque is accessible to routine brushing and often drives enamel caries.
Streptococcus mutans: A bacterium associated with dental caries that ferments sugars and produces sticky extracellular polymers. Its acid production and adhesive polymers can promote cariogenic plaque.
Oral microbiome: The microorganisms and their genetic material found in the human mouth. Plaque is one organized community within the broader oral microbial ecosystem.
Dental floss: A strand used to clean between teeth where toothbrush bristles may not reach. Interdental cleaning removes plaque from contact areas between teeth.
Subgingival plaque: Dental plaque located in the space between a tooth and the surrounding gum. Its protected location is closely associated with periodontal inflammation.
Extracellular polymeric substance: A matrix of polymers secreted by microorganisms that helps hold biofilm cells together. Plaque’s matrix supports microbial attachment and can limit penetration of substances.
Tooth enamel: The hard, mineralized outer covering of the visible crown of a tooth. Plaque adheres to enamel, where its acids can cause mineral loss.

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