What Are Plaque and Tartar? Understanding the Differences
Many people confuse plaque and tartar, thinking they are the same. However, understanding the difference between the two is crucial for maintaining good oral health. In this article, we’ll delve into what dental plaque and tartar are, their causes, and the importance of regular oral hygiene and dental visits.
What is a Dental Plaque?
A soft, sticky substance called dental plaque accumulates on teeth, gums, and spaces between teeth. It contains millions of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. Every time you eat, you feed your body and the bacteria colonies in your mouth. While many bacteria are good for you, others cause damage because they feed on sugars and carbs and release acids that eat away at tooth enamel, causing gum disease and tooth decay.
- Plaque is a soft mixture of food, saliva, and bacteria.
- Frequent brushing and flossing will help get rid of it.
- Plaque contains bacteria that can cause the gums to bleed and swell.
When brushing and flossing, focus on these areas:
- The tooth surface
- The gumline
- The gaps between the teeth
Plaque must be regularly removed by brushing and flossing to prevent it from turning into tartar. Consider your diet and habits if you still get plaque despite brushing and flossing.
Drinking water after meals helps wash away food particles and plaque. Proper brushing and flossing techniques are also crucial—ensure you clean the gumlines thoroughly and gently.
Consequences of Ignoring Plaque
- Gingivitis: Plaque buildup can cause gingivitis, leading to inflamed, bleeding gums.
- Bad Breath: The mixture of bacteria, saliva, and food particles in plaque can lead to bad breath.
- Tartar Formation: If plaque is not eliminated, it may solidify into tartar, necessitating expert cleaning.
What is Tartar?
Tartar, often called dental calculus, is a hardened form of plaque that adheres to the surfaces of the teeth and along the gumline. When plaque is not adequately brushed or flossed away, it calcifies and adheres firmly to the teeth, making it impossible to remove with regular brushing.
- Tartar is a complex, calcified version of plaque.
- It can only be taken out by a dentist specialist.
- Tartar contains bacteria that can cause permanent damage to the gums and bones.
Importance of Professional Dental Cleans
Since tartar cannot be removed by brushing alone, regular dental cleanings are essential. Here’s why:
- Preventing Gum Disease: Tartar buildup harbours bacteria that cause gum disease. If not treated, this can permanently damage the gums and bones supporting your teeth.
- Avoiding Long-term Damage: Over time, tartar can cause the gums and bones to erode and shrink away from the teeth. This damage is permanent, emphasizing the need for regular dental cleanings.
- Regular Check-ups: Many people develop tartar within a few months. Therefore, dentists recommend having check-ups and cleanings every six months to prevent long-term damage to your oral health.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
To avoid plaque and tartar accumulation, follow a thorough dental hygiene practice and see your dentist regularly. Here are a few tips:
- Brush Twice Daily: Spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth with fluoride.
- Floss Daily: Plaque and food particles under the gum line and in between your teeth can be eliminated with flossing.
- Use Mouthwash: Antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in your mouth, preventing plaque buildup.
- Regular Dental Visits: Schedule check-ups and cleanings every six months to catch any issues early and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Healthy Diet: Eat fewer starchy and sugary meals as they encourage the growth of harmful germs in your mouth. Drink lots of water to help flush out bacteria and food particles.
Dental Health in Seven Hills
Don’t let plaque and tartar compromise your oral health. Schedule a no-gap dental check-up and clean today at My Local Dentists Seven Hills.
Our experienced professionals help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
GAP FREE Check and Cleans on WEEKDAYS for all patients with eligible dental coverage on their private health insurance. Patients must bring a physical or digital health fund card on the day of treatment to be eligible.
Contact your Seven Hills dentist at (02) 8605 1696 or schedule an appointment online.
We are at Shop 55, (Ground Floor) Seven Hills Plaza, 224 Prospect Hwy, in Seven Hills.