Learn the Difference Between Tartar and Dental Plaque
Food debris that accumulates between teeth, along with poor oral hygiene, leads to the formation of dental tartar. What is tartar? How can it be removed? And what is the difference between tartar and dental plaque?
We’ll answer these questions in the article below.
What Is Dental Plaque?
Dental plaque is a thin, sticky film that forms on the surface of the teeth. It is made up of food particles and contains bacteria that can damage the teeth and gums.
What Is Dental Tartar?
Dental tartar (also called calculus) is a hard, yellowish deposit that forms when dental plaque builds up and interacts with bacterial acids and minerals in the saliva.
The color of tartar can range from yellow to brown or even black.
Black tartar usually develops when the deposits are exposed to fluids from the gums and blood in inflamed or diseased areas.
Causes of Dental Tartar
Tartar can build up on your teeth for several reasons, including:
– Poor oral hygiene
– Not cleaning between the teeth and leaving food debris trapped
– Brushing your teeth incorrectly or ineffectively
– Dry mouth (xerostomia)
What Are the Harms of Dental Tartar?
Tartar buildup on the teeth can lead to several problems, such as:
– Increased risk of dental caries (tooth decay)
– Gum recession caused by tartar along the gumline
– Loss (resorption) of jawbone supporting the teeth
– Tooth mobility and eventual tooth loss
– Tooth wear and erosion
– Tooth sensitivity
– Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
– Mouth ulcers
– Bleeding and swollen gums
What Is the Difference Between Plaque and Tartar?
Below is a breakdown of the key differences between dental plaque and tartar:
Appearance:
– Plaque is a thin, colorless or slightly whitish film that is usually not visible.
– Tartar is a hard, calcified deposit that causes visible discoloration of the teeth.
How quickly they form:
– Plaque begins to form on the teeth within about 4 hours after eating.
– Tartar develops over days when plaque is not removed regularly.
How they are removed:
– Plaque can be removed by proper toothbrushing and using dental floss.
– Tartar cannot be removed at home; it requires professional dental cleaning (scaling) by a dentist or dental hygienist.
Tips to Reduce Plaque and Tartar Buildup
Here are the most important tips to help lower your risk of plaque and tartar:
– Brush your teeth at least twice a day
– Use the correct brushing technique
– Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
– Use a fluoride toothpaste
– Clean between your teeth with dental floss or a water flosser
– Use an antiseptic or fluoridated mouthwash
– Get your teeth professionally cleaned twice a year
– Follow a healthy, balanced diet
– Drink plenty of water
– Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy
Dr. Fares Mattouk
– Bachelor’s degree in Dentistry and Oral Surgery from Al-Qalamoun University – Damascus
– Completed multiple courses in cosmetic dentistry and smile design
– 11 years of experience in restorative and cosmetic dentistry
Areas of interest and expertise include:
– All types of dental prosthetics (bridges, crowns, and porcelain veneers such as veneers and Lumineers)
– Cosmetic dental services (esthetic fillings, tooth restoration, Hollywood smile)
– Comprehensive smile makeover planning and treatment
– Root canal treatment and tooth extraction
