DENTAL PLAQUE Meaning and
Definition
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Dental plaque is a term used to describe a sticky and colorless biofilm that forms on the surfaces of teeth. It is primarily composed of bacteria, saliva, food particles, and other substances present in the mouth. Dental plaque constantly develops on teeth, particularly in hard-to-reach areas such as between teeth and along the gum line.
The formation of plaque occurs when oral bacteria in the mouth interact with carbohydrates from food and drinks, resulting in the production of acids. This acidic environment encourages the growth and attachment of bacteria, leading to the accumulation and maturation of plaque. If left undisturbed, plaque can harden and mineralize into a substance known as tartar or dental calculus.
Dental plaque plays a significant role in the development of oral health issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Bacteria in plaque produce acids that erode tooth enamel, causing cavities. Moreover, these bacteria can cause inflammation and irritation of the gums, leading to gingivitis and, if left untreated, progressing to periodontitis.
Regular oral hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing, are essential in effectively removing dental plaque. Proper oral care helps disrupt the growth and accumulation of plaque, reducing the risk of oral health problems. Additionally, professional dental cleanings are recommended to remove tartar and thoroughly clean areas that are difficult to reach with regular brushing and flossing.
Common Misspellings for DENTAL PLAQUE
- sental plaque
- xental plaque
- cental plaque
- fental plaque
- rental plaque
- eental plaque
- dwntal plaque
- dsntal plaque
- ddntal plaque
- drntal plaque
- d4ntal plaque
- d3ntal plaque
- debtal plaque
- demtal plaque
- dejtal plaque
- dehtal plaque
- denral plaque
- denfal plaque
- dengal plaque
Etymology of DENTAL PLAQUE
The word "plaque" derives from the Latin word "plāca", which means "plate" or "dish". This usage can be traced back to the Medieval Latin phrase "placa de materiā", meaning "plate of material". Over time, the term "plaque" came to be used in various contexts to denote a flat or plate-like object.
The word "dental" relates to the teeth, coming from the Latin word "dēns", meaning "tooth". When combined with "plaque", it specifically refers to the biofilm that forms on teeth surfaces.
Therefore, the etymology of "dental plaque" combines the Latin root words for tooth – "dēns" – and the Latin word for plate – "plāca" – to describe the formation of a sticky film on teeth surfaces.
Similar spelling words for DENTAL PLAQUE
- dental gold,
- dental caries,
- dental school,
- dental procedure,
- dental practice,
- dental care,
- dental appliance,
- dental implant,
- dental medicine,
- dental plate,
- dental surgery,
- dental surgeon.
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