In Brief: Giving pneumonia the brush-off
In Brief
Giving pneumonia the brush-off
Dental plaque is the white stuff that collects on our teeth, most often in the spots that the toothbrush doesn't quite reach. It's a homegrown version of biofilm — mobs of microorganisms that clump up and encase themselves in largish sugar molecules so they are fairly impenetrable. In biology, there's often strength in numbers.
As a biofilm, dental plaque, which can harden into tartar, may not be all bad. It can create a barrier to some potentially harmful bacteria. But much of the time, that benefit is canceled out by other bacteria in the plaque that may inflame gum tissue (gingivitis) and the underlying tissues that hold our teeth in place (periodontitis).
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
