Ace the DAT 2025 – Your Ultimate Dental Adventure Awaits!

Plaque and calculus are two distinct substances in dentistry that relate to oral hygiene and dental health.

Plaque is a soft, sticky film that forms on teeth and is primarily composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. This biofilm adheres to the teeth, and if not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque can be easily removed with proper oral hygiene practices.

Calculus, often referred to as tartar, is formed when plaque is not adequately cleaned off the teeth. Over time, the minerals in saliva deposit on the plaque, hardening it into a more solid form that adheres tightly to the tooth surface. Once formed, calculus cannot be removed by brushing alone and typically requires professional dental cleaning.

Hence, the correct choice accurately describes plaque as a sticky film that can be easily removed, whereas calculus is identified as hardened plaque that requires more intensive removal methods. This distinction is crucial for understanding the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent the buildup of calculus and its associated dental problems.