Which statement about plaque is accurate?

• A. It is the mineral deposit on enamel
• B. It is the bacteria and particles that adhere to the tooth surface
• C. It is the same as enamel
• D. It forms only after gum disease

Answer: (B)

Plaque is the sticky biofilm that forms on the teeth, made up of bacteria, their byproducts, and food particles that cling to the tooth surface. This is exactly why the statement describing plaque as the bacteria and particles that adhere to the tooth surface is accurate. It’s not a mineral deposit—that would be calculus or tartar—and it isn’t enamel itself. Plaque begins forming soon after cleaning, even in mouths without gum disease, and can harden into calculus if not removed. Managing plaque through regular brushing and flossing disrupts this biofilm and helps prevent decay and gum inflammation.