Plaque vs tartar

Plaque and tartar are both substances that form on the teeth, but they differ in their composition, how they form, and the methods required to remove them.

Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. It starts to accumulate within hours of brushing and can continue to build up over time if not removed through regular oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing. The bacteria in plaque feed on food particles, especially sugars, and produce acids that can erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Plaque is soft and can be easily removed by brushing and flossing.

Tartar, also known as calculus, is the hardened form of plaque. When plaque is not removed from the teeth in a timely manner, it can harden and mineralize, turning into tartar. This process takes about 24 to 72 hours, and once plaque becomes tartar, it can no longer be removed by regular brushing and flossing. Tartar is rough and porous, providing an ideal surface for further plaque accumulation. It typically forms at the gumline and can lead to more serious dental issues, such as gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) if not removed.

The primary difference between plaque and tartar is that plaque is soft and can be removed by brushing and flossing, while tartar is hard and requires professional dental cleaning to be removed. Regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist can help prevent the build-up of both plaque and tartar, ensuring better overall oral health.

Why Plaque Turns into Tartar

Plaque, if left on the teeth long enough, will eventually calcify. Saliva in the mouth contains minerals, and when plaque is left on the teeth, the minerals from the saliva begin to deposit on the plaque, causing it to harden into tartar. This transformation is why it is important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. Tartar formation can also be accelerated by a diet high in sugars or acidic foods, as these can contribute to the growth of bacteria that form plaque.

Health Risks Associated with Plaque and Tartar

Both plaque and tartar can lead to a range of dental and gum issues. Plaque that is not removed regularly can lead to cavities because of the acids produced by bacteria feeding on food particles. Over time, this acid weakens tooth enamel and leads to tooth decay. Plaque that remains on the gumline can also irritate the gums, leading to gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can cause tooth loss.

Tartar, because of its rough surface, can make it even harder to remove plaque, leading to a cycle where more plaque and tartar continue to form. Tartar buildup can also lead to gum recession, where the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that can trap more bacteria, further increasing the risk of gum disease.

How to Prevent Plaque and Tartar Build-up

Preventing plaque and tartar involves maintaining a good oral hygiene routine. Here are the key steps:

1. Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid damaging the enamel, and spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth to ensure that all surfaces are cleaned.

2. Floss Daily: Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gumline, where a toothbrush cannot reach. It should be done at least once a day.

3. Use Mouthwash: Mouthwash can help reduce plaque and bacteria in the mouth. Antiseptic mouthwashes help fight bacteria, while fluoride mouthwashes can help strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.

4. Regular Dental Cleanings: Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings. Dentists and dental hygienists use specialized tools to remove tartar from the teeth, a process that cannot be done with at-home brushing.

5. Healthy Diet: Eating a diet low in sugary foods and drinks can help prevent plaque formation. Sugars provide fuel for the bacteria that cause plaque. Drink plenty of water to help wash away food particles and bacteria.

6. Use Tartar-Control Toothpaste: Some toothpaste is specifically formulated to prevent tartar buildup. These pastes contain chemical compounds that help prevent plaque from turning into tartar.

When to See a Dentist

If you notice that your gums are red, swollen, or bleed when you brush your teeth, or if you have persistent bad breath, it may be a sign of gum disease. In these cases, it’s important to visit a dentist to have your teeth and gums professionally examined and cleaned. Tartar buildup requires professional treatment, and your dentist can provide guidance on improving your oral care routine to reduce the risk of plaque and tartar accumulation.

In conclusion, while both plaque and tartar can have negative effects on oral health, the difference lies in their formation and how they should be dealt with. Plaque can be removed with regular brushing and flossing, but tartar requires a professional cleaning to be properly removed. By maintaining a good oral hygiene routine and visiting your dentist regularly, you can prevent the buildup of both plaque and tartar and keep your teeth and gums healthy.