What is Bacterial Plaque?

Question 1

What is bacterial plaque?

Answer 1

Colonies of specific microbes surrounded by a gel-like intercellular substance

Question 2

What is bacterial plaque derived from?

Answer 2

• Bacteria themselves
• Saliva
• Crevicular fluid (inflammatory exudate)

Question 3

What is the function of the plaque matrix?

Answer 3

Pathway for the movement of bacteria and fluids

Question 4

What two sources are the contents of the plaque matrix derived from?

Answer 4

1. Products of bacterial metabolism

2. Saliva products

Question 5

What are the products of bacterial metabolism?

Answer 5

1. acids
2. enzymes
3. toxins

Question 6

What are the saliva products?

Answer 6

1. carbohydrates
2. proteins
3. salts
4. food components
5. leukocytes
6. epithelial cells

Question 7

Describe the first step in method of formation

Answer 7

1. Pellicle/cuticle near gingiva, glycoprotein or agglutinating substance

Question 8

Describe the second step in method of formation

Answer 8

Attachment occurs as bacteria colonize, liberating dextram which anchors the cariogenic mass to the tooth

Question 9

What does dextram do?

Answer 9

Anchor the cariogenic mass to the tooth

Question 10

Describe the third step in method of formation

Answer 10

Soft matrix becomes calculus as calcium and phosphate in the saliva mineralize the bacteria in the deeper layers

Question 11

Describe the fourth step in method of formation

Answer 11

Produce combination of cariogenic and periodontal problems at this stage