Regarding oral health, plaque and tartar are two of the biggest concerns. Both can cause damage to your teeth but what exactly is the difference between plaque and tartar?
Plaque and tartar are related but not the same. Plaque is a sticky film that coats the teeth and gums caused by a mixture of food particles and saliva. Tartar is what develops when plaque buildup is allowed to harden on the teeth, forming a hard, porous coating. Plaque can be removed by brushing but tartar requires dental assistance to remove.
This guide will provide you with all of the details you need to understand what causes plaque and tartar and how to avoid them.
What Is Plaque?
Plaque is formed by bacteria feeding on food particles left over in the mouth. This bacteria causes a sticky film that coats the teeth and gums, usually building up beneath the gum line. Plaque contains bacteria that eat away at tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay or cavities.
Plaque can also cause bad breath and gum disease if left unchecked. You can’t get rid of plaque entirely but a good oral hygiene routine can protect against the accumulation of dental plaque.
What Are The Signs of Plaque Buildup?
The signs of plaque buildup include:
- Chronic bad breath
- Fuzzy or slimy feeling on teeth
- Discoloration when flossing
- Pain or bleeding in gums
What is Tartar?
While many people think plaque and tartar mean the same thing, they are actually different issues. Tartar is what develops when significant plaque buildup is not removed and allowed to harden.
Tartar can lead to serious oral issues like increased tooth sensitivity, discoloration, or even advanced gum disease. Unlike plaque, tartar can’t be removed at home and will require a visit to the dentist.
What Are The Signs of Tartar Buildup?
The signs of tartar buildup include:
- Discolored spots on teeth, usually near the gums or in between teeth.
- Rough, hard patches on the teeth
- Pain or bleeding in gums
- Swollen gums
What Increases the Risk of Plaque and Tartar Buildup?
Your risk of developing plaque and tartar buildup is higher if you are not brushing and flossing regularly. Certain genetic factors can also increase the likelihood of plaque and tartar buildup. Smoking and a high-sugar diet are also major contributors to plaque and tartar.
How To Get Rid of Plaque and Tartar
A good oral hygiene routine is the best way to get rid of plaque. Plaque builds up naturally as you eat during the day, so brushing in the morning and at night is the first line of defense. For more significant plaque buildup, a visit to the dentist for a teeth cleaning can help take care of it.
Tartar is more difficult to get rid of and requires a dental professional. Your dentist will access the tartar buildup and may remove it using a process called scaling. This is the same procedure used to treat periodontitis.
Using a hand tool called a dental scaler, your dentist can chip away at the tartar. There are also ultrasonic dental tools that vibrate rapidly and are commonly used to chip away at tartar.
How To Prevent Plaque and Tartar
The best way to prevent plaque from building up on your teeth is a good oral hygiene routine. Brushing twice a day and flossing while drinking plenty of water will give you some added protection against plaque.
You can also try and avoid sugary and starchy food to prevent acid erosion. Keeping plaque at bay is the most important thing you can do to prevent tartar buildup. Visiting your dentist every six months for dental checkups and cleaning can also lower plaque buildup and prevent tartar.
Professional teeth cleaning can get rid of stains and plaque buildup on your teeth and other hard-to-reach areas.
Visit 32ology For A Dental Checkup
Brushing and flossing regularly can help reduce plaque buildup and lower the chances of tartar buildup. Tartar buildup can lead to more serious issues like gum disease or tooth loss, so a good oral hygiene routine is essential. If you are having issues with tartar or plaque or just want a checkup, our team is ready to help. Get in touch with 32ology today to schedule an appointment.