Are Tartar and Plaque Different?

September 27, 2023 Image Credit:

What’s the difference between tartar and plaque? How can you tell tartar and plaque apart? How do you get rid of it? How is it formed? Here at Kuhni Orthodontic Studio, we specialize in smiles, have been trained on teeth, and can help you understand the difference. Because we put such a strong emphasis on patient education, we’re more than happy to break it down for you. Many people use the terms ‘plaque’ and ‘tartar’ interchangeably when they’re talking about the buildup of bacteria on the teeth. However, there are many differences between the two. Understanding those differences can help boost your dental health.

Plaque Is What Makes Your Teeth Feel Sticky

Plaque is a clear, sticky substance and is always forming on the teeth. Plaque is what is created when your saliva combines with the food particles and sugar from the food you eat. Plaque is the residue that makes your teeth feel sticky between brushing. The reason why it’s so important to brush at least twice a day is that plaque can begin to form on the teeth within just a few hours of brushing. To keep your smile healthy and beautiful, you should be removing the plaque buildup from your teeth as often as you can.

Tartar Is Hardened Plaque

If plaque can accumulate on the teeth without being thoroughly and regularly removed, it will eventually harden into the substance known as tartar. Tartar is hardened onto the teeth and cannot be removed with a toothbrush alone. You’ll need to have a professional cleaning performed to have the tartar removed. If tartar is not removed quickly, it can increase your chances of developing tooth decay and gum disease. Both conditions can be painful and expensive to treat.

Good Oral Hygiene Helps Prevent Plaque and Tartar

The best way to keep plaque and tartar from causing problems for your dental health is to practice good oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene consists of:

Brushing at least twice a day for two minutes at a time
Flossing every day
Visiting your regular dentist every six months for a dental cleaning and a checkup

You heard that an apple a day keeps the doctor away? Well, brushing and flossing keeps plaque and tartar at bay.

A Closer Look at Plaque and Tartar

While many are aware that plaque forms from the combination of saliva, food particles, and sugar, it's essential to understand the deeper process. As we consume food, especially those rich in carbohydrates, they break down and mix with the natural bacteria in our mouths. This combination produces an acid, which, when left unchecked, can erode our teeth's enamel. Over time, as this acid interacts with food remnants and saliva, it transforms into the sticky substance we know as plaque. If not addressed promptly, minerals in our saliva can cause this plaque to harden, leading to tartar formation within just 48 hours.

Plaque Itself Is Colorless

While plaque is technically colorless, it can give our teeth a "fuzzy" sensation. Its sticky nature might also lead to some discoloration as it can trap food particles.

Tartar Is Yellow and in Severe Cases Brown

On the other hand, tartar has a more noticeable appearance. It's a hardened form of plaque and can turn yellow, making our teeth look discolored. In some cases, tartar can even stain our teeth brown, especially when influenced by certain foods or habits like smoking.

Plaque and Tartar Can Cause Cavities, Gum Recession, and Periodontal Disease

The buildup of plaque and tartar isn't just an aesthetic concern. If plaque isn't removed regularly, it can lead to cavities by eroding the enamel. Moreover, prolonged buildup can result in gum recession and even periodontal disease, a severe form of gum disease. Tartar, being a hardened form of plaque, houses bacteria that can lead to bad breath and further yellowing of the teeth.

A Healthy Diet Can Also Help Prevent Plaque and Tartar

While brushing and flossing are the cornerstones of oral hygiene, there's more to prevention. Diet plays a pivotal role. Consuming a high amount of:

Candy
Cookies
Other sugary items

Increases the likelihood of plaque formation. However, it's not just about cutting down on sweets. Even healthy foods like:

Fruits
Bread
Cereals

Contain carbohydrates that can contribute to plaque. The key is balance and ensuring we maintain a rigorous oral hygiene routine. Regular dental checkups are also crucial. They not only help in tartar removal but also provide an opportunity for early detection of potential oral health issues. So, this all leads to the ultimate question, how do you tell if it’s tartar or plaque?

How do you tell if it's plaque or tartar?

Plaque and tartar, while related, have distinct characteristics that make them distinguishable:

Appearance

Plaque: It is a soft, sticky film that forms on your teeth. Initially, plaque is colorless, but it can take on a pale yellow hue over time. If you've ever felt a "fuzzy" sensation on your teeth, especially after waking up, that's plaque. Tartar: Once plaque hardens, it turns into tartar. Tartar has a more crusty texture and is firmly attached to the tooth's surface. It can appear as brown, tan, or yellow stains, especially between teeth and around the gum line. In some cases, foods and drinks, like coffee, can stain tartar, making it appear brown.

Texture

Plaque: Soft and sticky. It can be removed easily with regular brushing and flossing. Tartar: Hard and crusty. Once formed, tartar cannot be removed by regular brushing or flossing. It requires professional intervention.

Location

Plaque: Forms on the surface of teeth and can accumulate along the gum line. Tartar: Often found at the base of teeth, especially behind the lower front teeth and can also form above the gum line. By observing the color, texture, and location of the buildup on your teeth, you can determine whether it's plaque or tartar.

What kills plaque and tartar?

While plaque can be managed with regular oral hygiene practices, tartar requires professional removal. However, there are methods to prevent and reduce their formation: Regular Oral Hygiene: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily can effectively remove plaque. Using tartar-control toothpaste can also help prevent plaque from hardening into tartar. Dietary Measures: Limiting the intake of sugary and starchy foods can reduce the formation of plaque. Foods like milk, soft drinks, cake, candy, and other carbohydrates can contribute to plaque and tartar formation. Natural Remedies Baking Soda: Mildly abrasive, baking soda can help in removing plaque and preventing tartar. A paste made of baking soda and water can be used to brush the teeth. White Vinegar: Gargling with a mixture of white vinegar, warm water, and salt can help in softening tartar. Aloe Vera: Known for its antibacterial properties, aloe vera can help prevent plaque and remove tartar buildup. Orange Peels: Rubbing the inside of orange peels directly on the teeth has been known to help in reducing tartar. Professional Cleaning: Dentists and dental hygienists use specialized tools to remove tartar from teeth. This process, known as scaling, ensures that tartar is removed without damaging the teeth or gums. Other Preventive Measures: Using mouthwash, getting regular dental checkups, and avoiding tobacco can also help in preventing plaque and tartar buildup. It's essential to note that while some home remedies can assist in plaque prevention, they cannot replace professional dental care. Regular dental checkups are crucial to ensure optimal oral health. For more information about oral health, you can talk to us anytime. To make an appointment for orthodontic care with Kuhni Orthodontics, please contact Dr. Kameron Kuhni today. We serve Spanish Fork, Mapleton, Palmyra, Lake Shore, Benjamin, Springville, Salem, and surrounding areas of Utah County. Find a local orthodontist near you today!