<unk>  is a biofilm of microorganisms (mostly bacteria, but also fungi) that grows on surfaces within the mouth. It is a sticky colorless deposit at first, but when it forms tartar, it is often brown or pale yellow. It is commonly found between the teeth, on the front of teeth, behind teeth, on chewing surfaces, along the gumline (supragingival), or below the gumline cervical margins (subgingival).<unk>  is also known as microbial<unk> , oral biofilm,<unk>  biofilm,<unk>  biofilm or bacterial<unk>  biofilm. Bacterial<unk>  is one of the major causes for<unk>  decay and gum disease. Progression and build-up of<unk>  can give rise to tooth decay – the localised destruction of the tissues of the tooth by acid produced from the bacterial degradation of fermentable sugar – and periodontal problems such as gingivitis and periodontitis; hence it is important to disrupt the mass of bacteria and remove it.<unk>  control and removal can be achieved with correct daily or twice-daily tooth brushing and use of interdental aids such as<unk>  floss and interdental brushes. Oral hygiene is important as<unk>  biofilms may become acidic causing demineralization of the teeth (also known as<unk>  caries) or harden into<unk>  calculus (also known as tartar). Calculus cannot be removed through tooth brushing or with interdental aids, but only through professional cleaning.
Dental plaque
Dental instrument
Dental abscess
Mouth infection
Animal bite
Periodontal disease
Periodontal abscess
Impacted wisdom teeth