Which term describes the soft deposit of bacteria and bacterial by-products on the teeth that can lead to dental decay and periodontal disease?

Answer 1

In almost all cases gum disease is a self-inflicted ailment caused by improper cleaning of the teeth and gums. Food trapped under the gums combines with bacteria to create plaque, a "toxic stew" that irritates the gums and makes them bleed. This colorless film of sticky material containing food particles, bacteria, and saliva attaches itself to the tooth above and below the gum line encouraging advanced gum disease and tooth decay. Then plaque, the "toxic stew," hardens into tartar (calculus) in just 24 hours. By then the damage is done - only a dentist can remove tartar. Each day this "contaminated crust" grows and inflames the gums. That's why you need to remove plaque every day, no matter what, to avoid advanced gum disease. But brushing alone does not remove the plaque.