What is plaque composed of?

Plaque is a soft, sticky film that builds up on teeth and is primarily composed of saliva, food debris, and bacteria. When you consume food, particularly carbohydrates and sugars, leftover particles can adhere to your teeth. These particles provide a source of nutrients for bacteria that naturally inhabit the mouth. As these bacteria metabolize the food debris, they produce acids that can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.

Saliva plays a critical role in plaque formation as it contains proteins, enzymes, and minerals that can aid in the development of plaque. The bacteria in plaque can form a biofilm on the surface of teeth, which makes regular dental cleaning essential to control plaque accumulation and the associated risks.

Other options provided do not accurately reflect the composition of plaque. Fluoride and calcium are components associated with remineralization of the teeth rather than being part of the plaque itself. Food particles alone do not encapsulate the biological complexity of plaque, as they do not account for the crucial role of bacteria. Tooth enamel and dentin are structural components of the teeth and are not components of plaque. Understanding the correct composition of plaque is essential for recognizing its implications for oral health.