The Difference Between Plaque and Tartar
When discussing preventive dental care, two terms stand out: plaque and tartar. Both pose a threat to your teeth and gums, and both can cause serious problems if ignored. Understanding the difference between the two and their individual characteristics makes prevention much easier.
What Is Plaque?
Plaque is a sticky, colorless biofilm composed of oral bacteria and food residues. After meals, bacteria feed on sugar in the mouth and on the teeth. They use this energy to spread, forming more plaque. Unfortunately, the acids that bacteria release while making energy can gradually wear away at your tooth enamel, eventually leading to cavities. Plaque along the gumline also irritates the gums, triggering gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Because plaque is hard to see, it builds up with little notice. Regular dental hygiene is the only way to keep it under control.
How to Control Plaque
Here is what we recommend to control plaque buildup:
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily, focusing attention on the gumline.
- Limit frequent snacking, especially on sugary foods or drinks, since constant fuel increases the numbers of bacteria.
Even with these good habits, plaque never disappears entirely. Plaque starts to form within 20 minutes of consuming foods or drinks other than water. So regular meals, infrequent snacking, and consistent dental hygiene is critical for oral health.
What Is Tartar?
Tartar forms when plaque sits too long and combines with minerals in your saliva. The result is a rough, calcified deposit that usually looks cream-colored, yellow, or brown. Tartar effectively serves as a protection for the bacterial colonies that make plaque, leading to the growth of more tartar. Tartar irritates the gums, promotes bad breath, and stains teeth. Visible tartar usually means hidden buildup beneath the gumline as well. Left untreated, tartar increases the risk of gum disease and tooth loss. So, what is recommended to remove tartar?
How to Remove Tartar
Once tartar develops, brushing and flossing alone cannot remove it. The safest, most effective option is a professional dental cleaning. After the removal of tartar, prevention becomes extremely important. A daily routine of brushing and flossing keeps plaque from quickly hardening into tartar again. In addition, regular dental visits every six months are essential to catch small buildups of tartar before they do damage the gums, protecting long-term oral health.
Protecting Your Smile
At Lakeside Dental, we believe that prevention is just as important as treatment. If plaque or tartar concerns you, schedule an appointment for a professional evaluation. We provide thorough exams, gentle cleanings, and guidance for your peace of mind and oral health. A healthy smile depends on daily care at home and routine visits to your dentist. With both, plaque and tartar don’t stand a chance!
