Dental plaque (green) on a used toothpick (yellow),coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Plaque consists of a film of bacteria embedded in a glycoprotein matrix. The matrix is formed from bacterial secretions and saliva. Plaque is the main cause of tooth decay. The bacteria feed on sugars in food,producing acid as a waste product. This acid corrodes the teeth's enamel coating,resulting in dental caries. A build- up of dental plaque can also lead to inflamed and infected gums. Severe gum disease can lead to teeth falling out. Magnification: x175 when printed at 10 centimetres wide | |
Licence : | Droits gérés |
Crédit: | Science Photo Library / Gschmeissner, Steve |
Taille de l’image : | 3009 px × 4000 px |
Model Release : | Non requis |
Property Release : | Non requis |
Restrictions : | - |