Plaque

Also known as:  Bacterial Plaque;  Dental Plaque

Plaque is the layer of Detrimental Streptococcus Bacteria that forms on (and adheres tenaciously to) the surface of Teeth - it is not readily dislodged.

Alkaloids

 Sanguinarine (applied topically as a constituent of some brands of Mouthwashes and Toothpastes) may prevent and remove Plaque (from above but not below the Gums): 

 Studies have shown that Sanguinarine may be more effective for the removal of Plaque when it is a constituent of Mouthwashes than when it is a constituent of Toothpastes.

Carbohydrates

 Chitosan may inhibit the formation of Plaque. 

Cosmeceuticals/Toiletries

 Some commercial Mouthwashes (e.g. those containing Chlorhexidine or Sanguinarine) as their active ingredient) may be effective for the removal of supragingival Plaque (but not subgingival Plaque, i.e. Plaque below the Gums).  Short-term studies have demonstrated that Chlorhexidine-containing Mouthwashes may produce a reduction in dental Plaque of up to 55%: 

 Chlorhexidine (as an active ingredient in Mouthwashes) may inhibit the Streptococcus mutans Bacteria that is implicated in the formation of Plaque.