plaque
PLAK
/plæk/
A sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth.
Refers to soft biofilm that forms continuously and can be removed by daily brushing before it hardens.
The story behind the word. Plaque traces back to Middle Dutch 'plakken' (to patch or stick) and Old French 'plaque' (a flat patch). In the late 19th century, microbiologists and dentists adopted the word to describe the thin, flat layer or patch of bacterial biofilm clinging to tooth surfaces.
Word relationships
- biofilm: Biofilm is a broad biological term for structured bacterial communities, whereas plaque specifically describes dental accumulations.
Commonly confused with
- tartar: Plaque is soft and removable with a toothbrush, while tartar is hardened, mineralized plaque that requires professional cleaning.
Collocations
- plaque buildup
- remove plaque
- plaque formation
- dental plaque
Example sentences
- "Regular daily brushing removes plaque before it can produce enamel-damaging acids." Daily oral care
Memory hook
PLAQUE STICKS like a POSTER or PATCH onto your teeth. PLAQUE = Sticky bacterial patch.
When not to use
Do not confuse dental plaque with arterial plaque or commemorative wall plaques without specifying context.
Fun facts
- If dental plaque is left undisturbed, it can start calcifying into hard tartar in as little as 24 to 72 hours.
Related words
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