What is described as small particles of food in dental hygiene?

The term "food debris" specifically refers to the small particles of food that remain in the oral cavity after eating. In dental hygiene, recognizing food debris is important because it can contribute to plaque formation, which is a significant factor in the development of dental caries and periodontal disease.

Food debris is often the result of the chewing process and can come from various food items. It is typically soft and loosely adheres to the surfaces of the teeth and oral tissues. Understanding this concept is fundamental for dental professionals, especially when educating patients about maintaining oral hygiene.

Other terms like soft deposits refer more broadly to non-mineralized substances, including plaque, while hard deposits typically describe calculus that has formed from mineralized dental plaque. Supra-gingival contaminants may include any debris found above the gum line, which can encompass food debris but also includes other contaminants. Therefore, "food debris" is the most precise answer in the context of small particles of food in dental hygiene.