What sets dental plaque apart from tartar?

What impact do plaque and tartar have on my teeth?

Having a healthy smile goes beyond having bright, white teeth. There are various factors affecting your oral health that may not be immediately visible but can significantly impact it. Both plaque and tartar not only affect the look of your teeth but also play a crucial role in your overall oral health. While no one is exempt from plaque buildup, we can take action to fight it and reduce tartar accumulation on our teeth.

Plaque

Plaque is a soft, sticky, transparent film that develops on your teeth daily, sticking to the tooth surface and along the gum line. It consists of bacteria, sugars, and food particles.

Regular brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day can effectively eliminate plaque. Failure to remove plaque daily may lead to its hardening into tartar, also called calculus. Moreover, plaque can contribute to cavities, gingivitis, and the onset of gum disease.

Tartar

Tartar, also known as calculus, is hardened plaque that remains on teeth. It is solid, not sticky, visible, and appears yellow. Tartar sticks to the tooth surface, between teeth, and below the gum line. This hard substance forms a strong bond with the teeth and can only be eliminated by a dental professional using scaling. Regular removal of tartar is essential for good oral hygiene and to preserve healthy teeth and gums. Failure to remove tartar can result in gingivitis, gum disease, cavities, and even tooth loss.

The amount of plaque and tartar accumulation varies among individuals. Some people are more susceptible to it, and typically, tartar accumulates more rapidly as we age.

Prevention is key when it comes to maintaining good oral health, and establishing an effective at-home oral hygiene routine is the first step.

Following a simple oral hygiene routine can make a significant difference. By dedicating a few minutes each day, you are proactively safeguarding the health of your teeth, gums, and tongue.

Here are some easy steps to incorporate:

1. Brush your teeth with a tartar control toothpaste at least twice daily

2. Floss your teeth at least once a day

3. Use mouthwash before bedtime

4. Regularly visit your dentist every 6 months

If you feel that you are prone to plaque and tartar buildup, let your Vancouver Dentist's at Lux Dental know so they may make some additional recommendations to your oral health routine.