What type of debris does materia alba consist of?

Materia alba is a soft, whitish deposit that can accumulate on teeth, primarily composed of a combination of food particles, bacteria, and desquamated epithelial cells. The debris includes remnants of food that has not been thoroughly removed during oral hygiene practices, as well as bacteria that thrive in the mouth and contribute to plaque formation.

The presence of bacteria in materia alba raises concerns, as it can lead to biofilm development and potential oral health issues such as gingivitis and cavities. In contrast, other options do not accurately describe the composition of materia alba. For instance, while salivary proteins contribute to the formation of dental plaque, they are not the primary constituents of materia alba. Mineralized calculus refers to hardened plaque that forms over time, indicating a more advanced stage of plaque accumulation rather than the softer, more immediate debris represented by materia alba. Additionally, only considering dead epithelial cells would overlook the significant role that food particles and bacteria play in this substance's makeup.