Final answer:
Dental plaque forms as bacteria adhere to a layer of proteins and carbohydrates on teeth or implants, and over time, can calcify into dental calculus or tartar. This process is exacerbated by acids from bacterial metabolism, which dissolve tooth enamel and dentin.
Step-by-step explanation:
When plaque becomes heavy and calcified on dental implants, it is referred to as dental calculus or tartar. The formation of dental plaque begins with a layer of proteins and carbohydrates that microbes, such as Streptococcus mutans, adhere to, forming a biofilm. Sucrose breakdown by these bacteria leads to the production of glucose, which contributes to the biofilm's extracellular matrix, and fructose, which ferments into lactic acid. This acid dissolves the minerals of the tooth enamel and dentin, accelerating tooth decay. Over time, plaque that is not removed can thicken and harden, turning into tartar or dental calculus, which is more resistant to removal and can harbor various bacterial species.
Improper dental hygiene leads to an overgrowth of oral bacteria such as Streptococcus and Actinomyces species, resulting in dental caries, tartar, and gingivitis.