AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Dental plaque is a biofilm of microorganisms (mostly bacteria, but also fungi) that grows on surfaces within the mouth. It is a sticky colorless deposit at first, but when it forms tartar, it is often brown or pale yellow.

Detailed explanation-2: -Dental plaque is an example of a biofilm; its presence is natural and it supports the host in its defense against invading microbes. In health, the microbial composition of dental plaque is diverse and remains relatively stable over time (microbial homeostasis).

Detailed explanation-3: -Biofilms are a collective of one or more types of microorganisms that can grow on many different surfaces. Microorganisms that form biofilms include bacteria, fungi and protists. One common example of a biofilm dental plaque, a slimy buildup of bacteria that forms on the surfaces of teeth. Pond scum is another example.

Detailed explanation-4: -Examples of biofilms you might have seen include plaque that grows on our teeth, slime that forms on shower tiles, and the slippery coating on pond rocks. In a biofilm, bacteria stick to surfaces and to each other.