Dental plaque Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dental plaque

[ˌdɛn.təl ˈplæk ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

oral hygiene

A sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, leading to tooth decay and gum disease.

Synonyms

dental biofilm, oral plaque, tooth plaque.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dental plaque	Common in general conversation and dental care contexts when referring to the sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms on teeth. Brushing twice a day helps reduce dental plaque. Dental plaque can lead to cavities and gum disease if not properly managed.
tooth plaque	Generally used in informal conversations or when talking specifically about plaque on teeth, rather than other areas in the mouth. Flossing helps to remove tooth plaque between teeth. The dentist showed me areas where tooth plaque was accumulating.
oral plaque	Used interchangeably with dental plaque, though slightly broader, as it might refer to similar films on other surfaces in the mouth besides teeth. Oral plaque buildup can cause bad breath. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent oral plaque.
dental biofilm	More scientific or professional context when discussing the bacterial colonies that develop and adhere to surfaces in the mouth, such as teeth or dental appliances. The formation of dental biofilm is a complex process. Researchers are studying the effects of different toothpastes on dental biofilm.

Examples of usage

Dental plaque is the main cause of cavities.
Proper brushing and flossing can help prevent the buildup of dental plaque.
If left untreated, dental plaque can result in serious oral health issues.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Health Impact

Plaque can harden into tartar if not removed, making it tougher to clean and leading to gum disease.
Regular brushing and flossing are essential to control plaque buildup and maintain oral health.
Excess plaque is linked to systemic health issues, including heart disease and diabetes, highlighting its importance.

Cultural Perspectives

Different cultures around the world have varied approaches to dental care, from herbal remedies to modern toothpaste.
Some indigenous tribes use natural ingredients like twigs and roots to maintain oral hygiene, showcasing diverse traditions.
In ancient civilizations, people used mixtures of crushed bones and oyster shells to clean teeth, indicating early awareness of plaque.

Psychology

Studies show that individuals with poor oral hygiene may have lower self-esteem, affecting their social interactions.
The fear of dental care, known as dental anxiety, can prevent people from effectively managing plaque and their overall dental health.
Positive dental experiences can foster better hygiene habits, highlighting the connection between emotions and health practices.

Science

Plaque is primarily made of bacteria that feed on sugars from food, producing acid that can lead to tooth decay.
Over 700 types of bacteria can exist in the oral cavity, and they form complex biofilms known as dental plaque.
Research continues into how different diets impact plaque development, with sugar intake being a significant factor.

Origin of 'dental plaque'

Main points about word origin

The word 'plaque' comes from the French word 'plaque', meaning 'a plate' or 'a thin layer'.
In English, it started to refer to a coating or film in the 19th century, particularly in medical contexts.
The term gained prominence in dentistry as understanding of oral hygiene developed.

The term 'dental plaque' originated from the Latin word 'placka', meaning 'plate' or 'tablet'. The concept of dental plaque has been recognized for centuries, with ancient civilizations using various methods to clean teeth and prevent its formation. Modern dentistry has developed advanced techniques to remove and prevent dental plaque, improving oral health worldwide.