Plaque is a sticky film that forms on teeth when leftover food particles and saliva mix in the mouth. It is colorless, but it can cause tooth discoloration and give teeth a "fuzzy" feeling. Plaque can vary in appearance from person to person, but it is usually a yellow coating on the teeth, and it builds up around the edges of the teeth near the gums. Sometimes, it can be much paler in color or even colorless. Plaque contains bacteria, which can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease if not removed properly. It is important to remove plaque through regular dental cleanings and daily brushing and flossing.