Dental plaque is a nearly invisible, thin, sticky film comprised of saliva, mucus, bacteria and their by-products. Plaque forms every day as bacteria flourish in food debris and dead cells that adhere to teeth.
Plaque bacteria produce acids that contribute to tooth decay.
The decay process can lead to inflamed gums that become red and swollen and subject to bleeding. Plaque can also contribute to bad breath A build-up of plaque on the tooth surface may combine with minerals in saliva to form a hard, unsightly deposit called tartar, or calculus. Tartar cannot be removed with a toothbrush or floss. A dentist will remove tartar with instruments designed to clean the tooth surface without damaging gum tissue. The best way to avoid a build-up of plaque is to brush your teeth and clean between them every day as dental plaque is soft and easily removed.