salivary pellicle


salivary pellicle

The thin layer of salivary proteins and glycoproteins that quickly adhere to the tooth surface after the tooth has been cleaned; this amorphous, bacteria-free layer may serve as an attachment medium for bacteria, which in turn form plaque.See also: pellicle

sal·i·var·y pel·li·cle

(sali-var-ē peli-kĕl) Thin nonbacterial salivary film that quickly forms after teeth are cleaned; covers teeth and serves as a medium for plaque formation.