Plaque consists of:
- A. Bacteria.
- B. Inorganic material.
- C. Food.
- Dental plaque is composite of primarily microorganisms. One gram of plaque contain 2X1011 bacteria.
- The intracellular matrix estimated to account for 20% to 30% of the plaque mass consists of organic and nonorganic materials.
You are absolutely right! The main component of plaque is indeed: A. Bacteria
Here's why:
- Over 70% of the dry weight of plaque is made up of bacteria, specifically various types of oral bacteria. These bacteria form a biofilm on the teeth, which is a slimy layer that allows them to stick and grow.
- One gram of plaque can contain up to 2 x 10^11 bacteria, which is a staggering number! This highlights the vast amount of bacteria present in plaque and their role in its formation.
Other Components:
While other components are also present in plaque, they play a smaller role:
- Inorganic material:
This accounts for about 20-30% of plaque and includes minerals like calcium and phosphorus. These minerals come from saliva and food debris and can harden over time to form tartar.
- Food particles:
These are leftover bits of food that get trapped in the plaque biofilm and contribute to its growth by providing nutrients for the bacteria.
Therefore, while all the options listed can be found in plaque, bacteria are the dominant and most crucial component.
Remember, proper oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing regularly are essential for removing plaque and preventing its buildup, which can lead to various oral health problems like cavities and gum disease.
