ABSTRACT
This is the process that leads to dental cavities. For many years it has been known that micro-organisms are essential in the pathogenesis of dental caries. Micro-organisms are found in vast numbers in saliva and plaque. Plaque is a soft, sticky material found on tooth surfaces which is not easily removed by rinsing. It gives rise to a ‘furry’ feel to the teeth when felt by the tongue. After the teeth have been thoroughly cleaned with a toothbrush a thin layer, the pellicle, quickly forms on the clean tooth surface. This is virtually free of bacteria and is probably derived from salivary proteins. This ‘skin’ is quickly covered by masses of micro-organisms to form the plaque. Later, as the plaque gets older, other micro-organisms appear to take up residence in the plaque to build up a layered structure.
