【正确答案】outline the mechanisms of plaque formation. The attachment , growth , removal and reattachment of bacteria to the tooth surface is a continuous and dynamic process. However, several distinct processes can be recognized. Absorption of salivary proteins and glycoproteins, together with some bacterial molecules, to the tooth surface to form a conditioning film(the acquired pellicle). Long-range(>50nm), non-specific interaction of microbial cell surfaces with the acquired pellicle via van der Waals attractive forces. Shorter-range(10-20nm) interactions, in with the interplay of van der Waals attraction forces and electrostatic repulsion produces a weak area of attraction that can result in reversible to the surface. Irreversible adhesion can occur if specific inter-molecular interactions take place between adhesions on the cell surface and receptors in the acquired pellicle. Secondary or late-colonisers attach to primary colonizers (coaggregation), also by specific inter-molecular interactions. Cell division of the attached cells to produce confluent growth, and a biofilm.