Dental plaque
Dental Plaque
Dental plaque (pronunciation: /ˈdentl ˈplak/) 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 often brown or pale yellow. It is commonly found between the teeth, along the gumline, on the crowns (tops) of teeth and on dental implants.
Etymology
The term "plaque" is derived from the Old French plaque, meaning "plate", which refers to the flat, sticky nature of the substance. The term "dental" is derived from the Latin dens, meaning "tooth".
Related Terms
- Tartar: Hardened dental plaque that has been left untreated and can lead to gum disease.
- Caries: Also known as tooth decay or a cavity, this is a breakdown of teeth due to acids made by bacteria.
- Periodontal disease: A set of inflammatory diseases affecting the tissues that surround and support the teeth.
- Gingivitis: A type of periodontal disease characterized by inflammation and bleeding of the gums.
- Dental floss: A tool used to remove food and dental plaque from between teeth in areas a toothbrush is unable to reach.
- Toothbrush: A tool used to clean teeth and gums.
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention and treatment of dental plaque involves regular oral hygiene practices. These include brushing teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and having regular dental check-ups. Using a toothpaste that contains fluoride can also help prevent dental plaque.
In addition to these practices, a healthy diet that limits sugary drinks and snacks can also help prevent dental plaque. Regular dental cleanings by a professional can also remove tartar (hardened plaque) that cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Dental plaque
- Wikipedia's article - Dental plaque
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