What is the Difference Between Plaque and Tartar?

What’s The Difference Between Plaque and Tartar?

Many of our patients wonder whether there is a difference between plaque and tartar and what distinguishes the two from each other. There is a crucial difference and the explanation will help explain the importance of your daily oral regimen as well as your 6 month check up at the dentist.

Plaque

Throughout the day, plaque takes the form of that soft and sticky film that builds up on your teeth and under the gums. Plaque contains millions of bacteria! When you eat, you feed the bacteria on your teeth, especially when you consume carbohydrates and sugars. After the bacteria “eats”, an acid is produced that can erode enamel and lead to cavities.

Your daily oral routine is very important to prevent tooth decay and protect your teeth from plaque. To stop plaque build up, it’s essential to brush twice a day and floss daily. It can also be helpful to drink water and chew sugar-free gum after eating!

Tartar

When plaque does not get removed from your teeth it begins to build up. If plaque is left on the teeth too long it will harden into tartar. Tartar is very hard to remove. In fact, it can only be removed by a dental professional. This is why visiting the dentist twice a year is so important!

Tartar doesn’t only cause cavities but can also cause discolored teeth, sensitivity, gum recession, and periodontal disease. To prevent this plaque buildup from happening, daily brushing and flossing is very important.

Come In Every Six Months

To maintain plaque and tartar buildup, come see us at least every six months! We want your smile to be plaque and tartar free!

We Want To Thank Our Patients For Their Loyalty!