acquired pellicle

pellicle

 [pel´ĭ-k'l]

a thin scum forming on the surface of liquids.

acquired pellicle a colorless acellular bacteria-free film composed of salivary glycoproteins, deposited on the teeth within minutes after eruption or cleaning.

ac·quired pel·li·cle

a thin film (about 1 mcm), derived mainly from salivary glycoproteins, that forms over the surface of a cleansed tooth crown when it is exposed to the saliva.

Synonym(s): acquired cuticle, acquired enamel cuticle, brown pellicle, posteruption cuticle

acquired pellicle

an acellular film composed of salivary glycoproteins that closely and firmly adheres to the oral cavity. It is distinct from bacterial plaque, which is cellular and loosely adhered to the teeth until calcified into calculus. Acquired pellicle that has become discolored as a result of poor oral hygiene is called brown pellicle. Compare bacterial plaque.

brown pel·li·cle

(brown peli-kĕl)

A thin discolored film (about 1 mcm), derived mainly from salivary glycoproteins, which forms over the surface of a cleansed tooth crown when it is exposed to the saliva; may result from poor oral hygiene.
Synonym(s): acquired cuticle, acquired pellicle.