Plaque facts for kids

Plaque is a word with several meanings, but they all generally refer to something flat and plate-like. You might hear about plaque in your mouth, or even on a wall! It can be a natural growth, like a group of tiny living things, or a special object made by people.

What is a Plaque?

A plaque is often a flat, thin layer or object. Think of a flat plate or a thin sheet. This simple idea helps us understand the different ways the word "plaque" is used in science and everyday life.

Plaques in Biology

In biology, a plaque often means a flat growth or layer of living cells. These can be very small, like bacteria, or part of a larger problem in the body.

Bacterial Plaques

Sometimes, scientists grow tiny living things called bacteria in a lab. They use a special jelly-like substance called agar in a flat dish. When bacteria grow on this agar, they often form flat, round spots. Each spot is a colony, which is a group of millions of bacteria. These flat growths are called bacterial plaques. Scientists study them to learn how bacteria grow and what they do.

Dental Plaque

One type of plaque you might know about is dental plaque. This is a sticky, soft film that forms on your teeth. It is made up of tiny bacteria that live in your mouth, mixed with food particles and saliva.

• How it forms: After you eat, especially sugary foods, bacteria in your mouth start to feed on the sugar. As they eat, they produce acids and multiply, forming a sticky layer on your teeth.
• Why it's a problem: If you don't brush your teeth well, dental plaque can cause problems. The acids produced by bacteria can eat away at your tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Plaque can also irritate your gums, making them red, swollen, and sometimes bleed. This is called gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease.
• How to prevent it: Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily helps remove dental plaque. Regular visits to the dentist for cleanings are also important to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Arterial Plaques

Another type of plaque in biology can form inside your body, specifically in your arteries. Arteries are like tubes that carry blood from your heart to the rest of your body. Sometimes, a fatty substance can build up on the inside walls of these arteries. This buildup is called an arterial plaque.

• What it is: An arterial plaque is a layer of fat, cholesterol, and other substances. It can make the artery walls harder and narrower.
• Why it's a problem: When arteries become narrow, it's harder for blood to flow through them. This condition is called atherosclerosis. It can lead to serious health issues because parts of your body might not get enough blood and oxygen.
• Staying healthy: Eating healthy foods, getting regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can help keep your arteries clear and healthy.

Man-Made Plaques

Beyond biology, the word "plaque" also describes a flat object made by people. These are usually flat pieces of metal, wood, or stone.

• Memorial plaques: A common type is a memorial plaque. These are often placed on buildings, statues, or at special sites to remember important people, events, or historical moments. They usually have words carved or written on them.
• Awards: Plaques are also given as awards or trophies to recognize achievements in sports, academics, or other fields.
• Decorative plaques: Some plaques are simply decorative, used to add beauty to a wall or garden.

Whether it's a tiny film on your teeth or a special sign on a building, the word "plaque" helps us describe these flat, plate-like objects.