Which term describes the colorless, odorless, sticky film on teeth that contributes to decay?

Which term describes the colorless, odorless, sticky film on teeth that contributes to decay?

• A. Plaque
• B. Caries
• C. Tartar
• D. Gingivitis

Answer: (A)

The colorless, odorless, sticky film that forms on teeth is plaque. It’s a biofilm made up of bacteria embedded in a matrix of substances from saliva, which adheres to the tooth surfaces. When plaque sits on teeth, the bacteria can metabolize sugars from the diet and produce acids that begin to demineralize enamel, setting the stage for decay. If plaque isn’t removed regularly, it can harden into tartar (calculus), which is more difficult to remove and can irritate gums. The other terms refer to different things: caries is the decay process itself, tartar is mineralized plaque, and gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup.

The colorless, odorless, sticky film that forms on teeth is plaque. It’s a biofilm made up of bacteria embedded in a matrix of substances from saliva, which adheres to the tooth surfaces. When plaque sits on teeth, the bacteria can metabolize sugars from the diet and produce acids that begin to demineralize enamel, setting the stage for decay. If plaque isn’t removed regularly, it can harden into tartar (calculus), which is more difficult to remove and can irritate gums. The other terms refer to different things: caries is the decay process itself, tartar is mineralized plaque, and gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup.