Keeping your teeth clean is important for so many more reasons than just having a great smile. It's important to your physical health, your confidence, and for setting a good example for your family. Sometimes, things like plaque and tartar can build up on our teeth and work against that goal. Tartar and plaque might seem similar, but what exactly are the differences between them? Here are four key differences between plaque and tartar that everyone should know, and some tips for keeping them from building up on your the surface of your teeth.
The Appearance and Formation of Tartar and Plaque
Plaque is a soft, sticky film that forms on your teeth every day. It’s made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. Some people might notice plaque as an almost fuzzy feeling on the teeth if they haven't brushed for a while. Plaque is colorless or pale yellow and is often found along the gumline and between teeth.
Tartar, on the other hand, is hardened plaque. When plaque isn’t removed regularly, it combines with minerals in your saliva and hardens into tartar. Tartar is much harder to see at first because it can be the same color as your teeth, but as it builds up, it can turn brown or yellow. Unlike plaque, tartar is hard and rough.
How to Remove Tartar and Plaque
Plaque can be removed by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day helps keep plaque at bay. Plaque is pretty easy to remove at home if you keep up with your daily oral hygiene routine.
Tartar, however, cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone. Once tartar has formed, you’ll need to visit a dentist or dental hygienist and have your teeth professionally cleaned. Your dentist or dental hygienist uses special tools to scrape off the tartar from your teeth and below the gumline. This process is called scaling.
How Plaque and Tartar Impacts Your Health
Plaque is the main cause of cavities and gum disease. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay. If plaque builds up along the gumline, it can cause gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease that makes your gums red, swollen, and prone to bleeding.
Tartar buildup can make these problems worse. Because tartar is rough and porous, it provides an ideal surface for more plaque to gather and stick, leading to even more bacteria and acid production. Tartar buildup can lead to more severe gum disease, known as periodontitis, which can cause gums to pull away from the teeth, bone loss, and even tooth loss if not treated.
Plaque and Tartar Prevention
To prevent plaque from becoming tartar, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can also help reduce plaque buildup. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial to catch and remove any plaque before it turns into tartar.
Avoiding sugary foods and drinks can help too, as bacteria in plaque thrive on sugar. Eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of water can support your oral health. Finally, quitting smoking can reduce your risk of tartar buildup, as smoking is a significant risk factor for dental problems.
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