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Used and unused toothpicks, SEM
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Used and unused toothpicks, SEM
Used and unused toothpicks. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of an unused (left) and a used (right) toothpicks. The used toothpick has a blunt end and is covered in dental plaque. 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 teeths 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: x20 when printed at 10 centimetres wide
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6434547
© STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Bacteria Bacterial Biofilm Comparison Decay Dental Dentistry Glycoprotein Matrix Mouth Oral Plaque Tooth Tooth Pick Unused Wood Condition Disorder False Coloured Health Care Toothpicks
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a duo of toothpicks, one unused and the other used, under the lens of a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The contrast between the two is striking. On the left, we see a pristine toothpick with a sharp tip, while on the right, a blunt-ended toothpick covered in dental plaque tells an entirely different story. Dental plaque consists of bacteria embedded in a glycoprotein matrix formed by bacterial secretions and saliva. It is this plaque that serves as the main culprit behind tooth decay. As these bacteria feed on sugars from our food, they produce acid as waste. This acid gradually erodes the protective enamel coating of our teeth, leading to dental caries or cavities. The consequences don't stop there; if left unchecked, an accumulation of dental plaque can also result in inflamed and infected gums. In severe cases, gum disease can even cause teeth to fall out. At 20 times magnification when printed at 10 centimeters wide, this image offers us an up-close view into our oral health. It serves as a reminder to prioritize proper dental care and hygiene practices to prevent such conditions from taking hold.
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