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What’s the Difference Between Tartar and Plaque?

Understanding oral health can sometimes feel like navigating a maze of medical terms. Two such terms that are often confused are tartar and plaque. Dr. James Sunners, a renowned dentist with years of experience, explains the differences between tartar and plaque and why knowing these differences is essential for maintaining optimal dental health.

Understanding Plaque: The Primary Culprit

Plaque is a soft, sticky film that builds up on your teeth and gums. It’s primarily composed of bacteria, along with food particles and saliva. Plaque forms continuously and is the leading cause of various dental problems, including cavities and gum disease.

Key Characteristics of Plaque

Color and Texture: Plaque is colorless or pale yellow and has a sticky, slimy texture.

Formation: It forms constantly on your teeth, especially in hard-to-clean areas.

Control: Regular brushing and flossing can effectively remove plaque.

The Risks of Ignoring Plaque

If plaque is not removed regularly:

Tooth Decay: The acids plaque bacteria produce can erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities.

Gum Disease: Plaque buildup along the gum line can cause gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums.

Transitioning to Tartar: When Plaque Hardens

Tartar, or dental calculus, is what plaque becomes when it hardens on your teeth—Tartar forms when plaque is left undisturbed on the teeth and reacts with minerals in your saliva.

Characteristics of Tartar

Hardness: Tartar is a complex, crusty deposit that can only be removed by a dental professional.

Visibility: Unlike plaque, tartar can be easily seen. It often appears as a yellow or brownish deposit along the gum line or between teeth.

Why Tartar is a Concern

Tartar buildup:

Promotes Decay: Creates a rough surface that facilitates more plaque accumulation, leading to increased tooth decay.

Gum Problems: This can lead to more severe forms of gum disease like periodontitis.

Prevention and Removal of Plaque and Tartar

The key to preventing tartar is controlling plaque. Dr. James Sunners recommends the following:

Regular Brushing: Brushing your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to the gum line, where plaque tends to accumulate.

Flossing Daily: Flossing removes plaque between teeth and under the gumline, areas where a toothbrush can’t reach.

Dietary Choices: Limit sugary and starchy foods that feed the bacteria in plaque.

Regular Dental Checkups: Regular visits to the dentist, like Dr. James Sunners, allow for professional cleaning to remove tartar and any plaque you may have missed.

(12/26/2024)
by James R. Sunners D.D.S.. P.C

More Information: https://sunnersdds.com/whats-the-difference-between-tartar-and-plaque/

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