When it comes to maintaining good oral hygiene, understanding the basics is essential. Two of the most common terms people hear at dental appointments are plaque and tartar. While they may sound similar, they are very different in both composition and impact on your oral health. Knowing the difference between the two and how to prevent them can help you keep your teeth and gums in top condition.
What Is Plaque?
Plaque is a soft, sticky film that builds up on your teeth throughout the day. It contains millions of bacteria that feed on the sugars and starches from the food and drinks you consume. As they feed, these bacteria produce acids that attack tooth enamel and can lead to cavities and gum disease.
Because plaque is colourless or pale yellow, it is not always easy to see, but you can often feel it as a fuzzy layer on your teeth, especially if you have not brushed in a while. Plaque begins forming soon after eating, which is why dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily to keep it under control.
If left untreated, plaque does not simply go away. It continues to build up and can cause irritation in the gums, eventually leading to gingivitis, which is the early stage of gum disease. The longer plaque stays on your teeth, the more harm it can do.
What Is Tartar?
Tartar, also known as calculus, forms when plaque is not removed and hardens on the teeth. Unlike plaque, which is soft and can be removed with regular brushing and flossing, tartar is a hard substance that bonds tightly to the enamel and can only be removed by a dental professional using special tools.
Tartar is usually yellow or brown in colour and often appears along the gumline and between the teeth. Once tartar has formed, it provides an ideal surface for further plaque to accumulate, which increases the risk of decay and gum disease.
Tartar can also lead to cosmetic concerns. It is rough and porous, which means it can trap stains more easily from things like tea, coffee, and tobacco, leaving your teeth looking dull or discoloured.
How to Prevent Plaque and Tartar
Preventing plaque and tartar build-up starts with a solid oral hygiene routine. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is one of the most effective ways to keep plaque under control. Pay attention to brushing along the gumline and all tooth surfaces for at least two minutes each time.
Flossing is just as important, as it helps remove plaque from between the teeth and below the gumline where your toothbrush might not reach. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria and freshen breath.
Regular visits to the dentist are key. Even with excellent at-home care, plaque can still form in hard-to-reach areas, and professional cleaning is the only way to remove tartar once it has developed. Most people benefit from seeing a dental hygienist every six months, though your dentist may recommend more frequent visits if you are at a higher risk for gum disease.
While plaque and tartar are closely related, they are not the same. Plaque is a daily concern and can be managed through good oral hygiene, but when ignored, it hardens into tartar, which requires professional attention. Understanding how these two substances affect your oral health is an important step in protecting your teeth and gums from long-term damage. By maintaining a thorough daily routine and visiting your dentist regularly, you can keep both plaque and tartar under control and enjoy a healthier smile.
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