Plaque is a sticky biofilm composed of bacteria, saliva, and food particles. If not removed through regular cleaning, plaque can mineralize into tartar, which is harder and more challenging to remove. Histologically, plaque accumulation can lead to inflammation of the gingiva, resulting in gingivitis. Gingivitis is characterized by swollen, red gums that may bleed easily. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe condition affecting deeper periodontal tissues.
