What substance does dental plaque primarily produce?

Dental plaque primarily produces acids as a result of the metabolic processes carried out by the bacteria present within the plaque. When sugars and carbohydrates in food are consumed, the bacteria in plaque ferment these substances, leading to acid production as a byproduct. This acid can demineralize tooth enamel, contributing to the development of dental caries, commonly known as cavities.

While bacteria are a key component of dental plaque and play a critical role in its formation, the direct substance produced as a consequence of their activity is the acids that result from their metabolic processes. Chelation, on the other hand, refers to the binding of ions and molecules to form a complex, which is not a process associated with dental plaque. Thus, the correct answer focuses on the specific product of the bacteria's action within the plaque.