• The term plaque to describe the soft coatings on everyone’s tooth surfaces dates from 1898.
• Plaque formation is perpetual, beginning immediately after a tooth surface is cleaned.
• Calculus is hardened plaque that forms in layers, with new dental plaque forming its top soft layer.
• Plaque is 80% water, and the other 20% is composed mainly of protein and carbohydrates.
• Plaque is an ecosystem that contains hundreds of species of bacteria with mycoplasma, viruses, yeast, and protozoa.

Science is always fascinating, but the plaque fact that really matters? Plaque is the leading cause of tooth loss through caries and gum disease. That’s why we emphasize so strongly the need for excellent, regular, and diligent home care.