Dental plaque and gum disease. Close-up of dental plaque on the teeth of a patient, after staining, with bleeding caused by gum disease (gingivitis).
Dental plaque and gum disease. Close-up of dental plaque on the teeth of a patient, after staining, with bleeding caused by gum disease (gingivitis). Plaque consists of a film of bacteria embedded in a glycoprotein matrix. The matrix is formed from bacterial secretions and saliva. Plaque is the main cause of tooth decay. The bacteria feed on sugars in food, producing acid as a waste product. This acid corrodes the teeth's enamel coating, resulting in dental caries. A build-up of dental plaque can also lead to inflamed and infected gums (as here).
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Photo credit: © Dr. J.P. CASTEYDE/CNRI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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