<P> Dental plaque is a biofilm that attaches to tooth surfaces, restorations and prosthetic appliances (including dentures and bridges) if left undisturbed . Understanding the formation, composition and characteristics of plaque helps in its control . An acquired pellicle is a layer of saliva that is composed of mainly glycoproteins and forms shortly after cleaning of the teeth or exposure of new teeth . Bacteria then attach to the pellicle layer, form micro-colonies, and mature on the tooth, which can result in oral diseases . The following table provides a more detailed (six - step) explanation of biofilm formation: </P> <P> Different types of bacteria are normally present in the mouth . These bacteria, as well as leukocytes, neutrophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes, are part of the normal oral cavity and contribute to the individual's health . Approximately 80--90% of the weight of plaque is water . While 70% of the dry weight is bacteria, the remaining 30% consists of polysaccharides and glycoproteins . </P> <P> The bulk of the microorganisms that form the biofilm are Streptococcus mutans and other anaerobes, though the precise composition varies by location in the mouth . Examples of such anaerobes include fusobacterium and actinobacteria . S. mutans and other anaerobes are the initial colonisers of the tooth surface, and play a major role in the establishment of the early biofilm community . These microorganisms all occur naturally present in the oral cavity and are normally harmless . However, failure to remove plaque by regular tooth - brushing allows them to proliferate unchecked and thereby build up in a thick layer, which can by virtue of their ordinary metabolism cause any of various dental diseases for the host . Those microorganisms nearest the tooth surface typically obtain energy by fermenting dietary sucrose; during fermentation they begin to produce acids . </P> <P> The bacterial equilibrium position varies at different stages of formation . Below is a summary of the bacteria that may be present during the phases of plaque maturation: </P>

Explain the development of plaque and its composition