Dental plaque: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.