Dental Plaque Types and Locations

What is the composition of dental plaque?

Microorganisms attached to each other and to the tooth surface, embedded, interwoven and surrounded by extracellular material of a triple abiotic origin: bacterial, saliva, and diet

Why is the term 'dental plaque' preferred over 'bacterial plaque'?

Because it includes microorganisms such as viruses, fungi, and protozoa in its content

What are the different types of dental plaque based on location?

Supragingival, subgingival, and root surfaces plaque

Where is supragingival or dentogingival plaque predominantly found?

On the smooth surfaces of the teeth and above the gum line Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic feature of smooth surfaces plaque?

It forms on smooth surfaces such as the buccal or buccal and palatal or lingual surfaces of the teeth Signup and view all the answers

Where does fissure plaque form?

On the pits, fissures, and grooves on the occlusal surfaces Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the acquired pellicle in plaque development?

To protect the tooth from decalcification and prevent the penetration of acids. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of plaque is most similar to subgingival plaque in terms of its attachment location?

Root surface plaque Signup and view all the answers

What is the composition of mature plaque?

Bacteria and acellular matrix Signup and view all the answers

Which microorganism is found to increase in caries within mature plaque?

Streptococcus mutans Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in plaque formation according to the text?

Acquired pellicle formation Signup and view all the answers

Which bacteria are considered pioneer bacteria in primary colonization during plaque development?

Oral streptococci and Actinomyces naeslundii Signup and view all the answers

Which type of plaque becomes thicker as anaerobic areas develop during secondary colonization?

Subgingival plaque Signup and view all the answers

What is the predominant mineral component in calculus or tartar formation?

Hydroxyapatite Signup and view all the answers

Which microorganism is found to increase in periodontitis within mature plaque?

(Aggregatibacter) Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans Signup and view all the answers

What provides positive ions (calcium, hydrogen, magnesium) for the union between acquired pellicle and negatively charged bacteria?

Saliva Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of the floating plaque?

To be located between tooth structures. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary composition of the acellular matrix in mature plaque?

Inorganic compounds: K, Na, Ca and phosphates etc. Signup and view all the answers