In some advertisements for toothbrushes and toothpaste, plaque is sometimes incorrectly depicted as a particulate substance. Although particulate material in the form of food does accumulate in between teeth, they are not in themselves dental plaque, though they may eventually cause it.
Dental plaque is actually a biofilm, consisting of a thin yet visible film of filamentous microorganisms and particles stuck in between teeth. It is readily felt by the tongue and can even be scraped off by the fingernails though more effective methods of manual removal exist. When allowed to accumulate over the course of a day, it turns to tartar, which is evident as a visible yellow stain on teeth that can be removed only by dentist's instruments.
Plaque is a natural result of the normal flora of the mouth and, thus, cannot be prevented. Cosmetic concerns surrounding teeth discoloration aside, dental plaque plays a role in tooth decay and eventual tooth loss. When exposed to high-sugar or high-carbohydrate environments—a particularly common occurrence in modern diets—dental plaque retains lactic acid, which can cause dental caries if exposed to teeth for prolonged periods.
Thus, the regular removal of plaque and tartar play a key role in lasting dental health. Habitual brushing and flossing on a daily basis dislodge dental plaque while still in its soft film form, whereas annual teeth cleaning visits to the dentist remove accumulated tartar. Fluoridated toothpaste and drinking water also strengthen the tooth and create a surface that bacteria cannot readily cling on to, reducing the amount of plaque that forms and making it easier to remove subsequently.
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