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Dentistry vocabulary · Gums and Oral Hygiene

Plaque

Meaning in dentistry, with examples

/plæk/nounCore term

In dentistry, plaque means: A soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth every day. If brushing and cleaning between the teeth do not remove it, it leads to decay and gum disease.

In Turkish: plak, dental plak, bakteri plağı

How it is used

Used in hygiene advice and periodontal notes. Plaque builds up or accumulates and is removed or disrupted. When it hardens it becomes tartar (calculus). Researchers also call it dental biofilm.

Example sentences

  1. Plaque builds up quickly along the gum line if you skip brushing.

  2. We use a disclosing tablet to show children where the plaque is.

Common collocations

  • dental plaque
  • plaque build-up
  • remove plaque
  • plaque control
  • plaque score
  • tartarHard, yellow or brown deposits that form when plaque hardens on the teeth. A toothbrush cannot remove it, so it needs professional cleaning.
  • gingivitisInflammation of the gums, usually caused by plaque. The gums look red and swollen and bleed easily, but good cleaning can reverse it.
  • cariesDamage to a tooth caused by acids that plaque bacteria make from sugar. It slowly dissolves enamel and dentin and, if untreated, can reach the pulp.
  • flossTo clean between the teeth and just under the edge of the gum with a thin thread. As a noun, it is the thread itself, also called dental floss.

More terms: Gums and Oral Hygiene

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.