Plaque

Plaque (Latin placa dentalis) is soft, sticky, non-mineralized plaque firmly attached to the tooth surface. It represents a complex, organized multispecies colony of microorganisms immersed in a protective polysaccharide matrix.

Dental plaque is a major etiologic factor in the development of dental caries and periodontal disease.

Etiology and pathophysiology

The bacteria within the plaque, predominantly Streptococcus mutans, metabolize carbohydrates from food into organic acids. These acids are retained by the biofilm directly against the enamel surface, causing long-term chemical dissolution of the enamel. The process of plaque formation begins a few minutes after brushing and goes through the stages of pellicle formation, bacterial adhesion and biofilm maturation.

Clinical significance

Plaque cannot be washed away with water and requires mechanical removal with a toothbrush and floss, toothbrush. In the absence of regular hygiene, soft plaque is mineralized by saliva minerals and turns into tartar. The constant presence of plaque maintains an acidic environment, leading to the dissolution of enamel minerals and the formation of carious lesions.

Upon reaching the dentin, in addition to continuing to produce acid, plaque bacteria also begin to secrete proteolytic enzymes. As a result, the organic component (collagen) of dentin is destroyed. The toxins released by the bacteria cause inflammation of the gum and destruction of the periodontal ligament of the teeth.