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plaque

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Plaque is a soft, sticky film that forms on teeth. It is made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. Plaque can build up on teeth over time and cause tooth decay and gum disease.

Plaque forms when bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars and starches from food. These bacteria produce acids that attack the teeth, causing cavities. Plaque can also irritate the gums, leading to gum disease.

There are a few things that can help to prevent plaque buildup:

  • Good oral hygiene: Brushing teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and flossing once a day are essential for removing plaque.
  • Avoiding sugary foods and drinks: Sugary foods and drinks provide food for the bacteria in plaque, so it is important to limit their intake.
  • Seeing a dentist regularly: A dentist can remove plaque buildup and diagnose any problems early on.

How can the word be used?

The dentist removed a plaque from the patient's teeth.

plaque

Different forms of the word

Noun:

  • plaque (a flat, thin piece of metal, plastic, or other material with an inscription or design on it).
  • plaque (a patch of abnormal tissue, such as a buildup of fatty deposits, on a surface of an organ).
  • plaque (a decorative panel or ornament).
  • plaque (a small, flat, round piece of food).

Verb:

  • plaque (to cover something with a plaque).

Etymology

The word "plaque" comes from the Old French word "plaquier", which means "to plate".

The word "plaque" was first used in English in the 14th century. It was used to refer to a flat, thin piece of metal or other material with an inscription or design on it.

The root of the word "plaque" is the Latin word "placa", which also means "plate".

So, the word "plaque" literally means "plate". This is a reference to the fact that a plaque is a flat, thin piece of material.

Question

What can you do to avoid plaque build up?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Describe the formation of plaque in arteries.

Answer:

Plaque is a buildup of fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances on the walls of arteries. It is a major cause of heart disease and stroke.

Plaque formation begins when LDL cholesterol, the "bad" cholesterol, builds up in the walls of arteries. LDL cholesterol is attracted to the walls of arteries by fatty molecules called free radicals. As LDL cholesterol builds up, it forms a fatty streak.

Over time, the fatty streak can become a plaque. Plaque can grow large enough to narrow the artery and restrict blood flow. This can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

There are several things that can contribute to plaque formation, including:

  • High blood pressure.
  • High cholesterol.
  • Smoking.
  • Diabetes.
  • Obesity.
  • Physical inactivity.
  • Age.

There are also things that you can do to reduce your risk of plaque formation, including:

  • Eating a healthy diet.
  • Exercising regularly.
  • Not smoking.
  • Controlling your blood pressure.
  • Managing your cholesterol.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight.