TL;DR
- Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that starts forming on teeth within hours of eating.
- Tartar is hardened plaque that forms within 24–72 hours and cannot be removed at home.
- Consistent brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash help prevent plaque buildup.
- Tartar removal requires professional dental cleaning, such as scaling and root planing.
Plaque vs Tartar: Key Differences You Should Know
Plaque and tartar are two terms that get tossed around in dental conversations, but they’re often misunderstood. While they’re closely connected, they affect your teeth in different ways, and recognizing how they interact is important for keeping your smile healthy. Many people overlook these subtle differences, yet understanding them can help prevent common dental problems before they start.
In this article, we’ll discuss the differences between plaque vs tartar and what you can do to prevent and treat them.
What is the Difference Between Plaque vs Tartar?
Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that often feels fuzzy when you run your tongue across your teeth. It is usually colorless but can sometimes appear pale yellow.
Tartar, on the other hand, is hardened plaque that forms a rough, crusty layer on the teeth. It can cause visible discoloration and may lead to permanent staining if not removed promptly.
Key differences between tartar vs plaque include:
1. Formation and Timing
Plaque begins forming on your teeth within hours of eating as bacteria in your mouth mix with food particles and saliva. If left untreated, minerals in your saliva begin to harden it, turning plaque into tartar within 24 to 72 hours.
2. Impact on Oral Health
Plaque, though soft, can irritate gums, trigger inflammation, and promote cavities if neglected. Tartar, being hardened plaque, poses a greater threat: it accelerates gum disease, contributes to tooth decay, and makes it harder to maintain oral hygiene.
3. Removal Methods
One of the major differences between plaque vs tartar on teeth is how they are removed. Most times, consistent brushing and flossing are enough to remove plaque. Tartar, however, cannot be eliminated at home and requires professional dental cleaning to prevent further damage.
What are the Best Ways to Keep Plaque Under Control?
Preventing plaque before it hardens into tartar is easier than treating the damage later. Here are some tips:
- Brush your teeth twice daily using fluoride toothpaste to protect your smile.
- Floss every day to remove plaque from areas between your teeth that brushing can’t reach.
- Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacterial growth.
- Reduce consumption of sweets and sugary drinks as they encourage plaque growth.
- Make it a habit to visit your dentist twice a year for preventive care.
How Do Dentists Remove Tartar?
After plaque solidifies into tartar, only a professional can safely remove it. Treatment may include:
- Scaling: A hygienist removes hardened tartar from teeth and gumlines using professional dental tools in a procedure called scaling.
- Root Planing: For patients with gum disease, deeper cleaning smooths the roots to help the gums heal.
- Ongoing Care: Your dentist may suggest more frequent cleanings if you’re prone to tartar buildup.
When to See a Dentist About Plaque and Tartar?
Plaque is something you can usually control with good daily habits, but tartar needs a dentist’s help. Make an appointment with a dentist in osseo mn if you notice:
- Yellow or brown buildup around teeth.
- Persistent bad breath.
- Gum swelling or bleeding.
- Sensitivity or discomfort.
Conclusion
The understanding of plaque vs tartar is essential for maintaining oral health. If plaque is not regularly removed through brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, increasing the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and long-term dental damage. If you notice plaque buildup, bleeding gums, or gum irritation, act promptly, as early treatment can prevent serious problems later.
Take Charge of Your Oral Health Today!
At Osseo Family Dental, we provide gentle, thorough care to help you maintain optimal oral health, covering everything from routine checkups to more advanced gum treatments.
To schedule your visit, call us at (763) 425-2626, email us at info@osseofamilydental.com, or visit us in person at 30 Central Ave, Osseo, MN 55369.
Keep your teeth healthy and free from plaque and tartar by booking your checkup today!
FAQs
What is dental plaque and how does it form?
Plaque is a thin, sticky layer of bacteria that develops on your teeth when leftover food particles combine with saliva. It begins forming within hours after eating.
What is tartar (calculus) and how does it develop from plaque?
Tartar is what happens when plaque isn’t cleaned off your teeth, and it hardens in just a couple of days. It attaches firmly to teeth and gums.
How can I tell if I have plaque or tartar on my teeth?
Plaque feels sticky or fuzzy on your teeth, while tartar appears as yellow or brown deposits near the gumline.
Can plaque be removed at home? What about tartar?
Daily brushing and flossing can get rid of plaque, but once it hardens into tartar, only a dentist or hygienist can remove it.
What are the health risks associated with plaque vs tartar?
Plaque can cause cavities and gum irritation. If left untreated, tartar buildup may cause gum disease, weaken the bone supporting the teeth, and eventually result in tooth loss.
