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What is the Difference Between Plaque and Tartar?
Posted on May 19th, 2023
It’s no secret that plaque can cause a lot of damage to your teeth and gum health. However, not everyone knows exactly what plaque is, or how it’s related to dental tartar. Many people mistakenly think that plaque and tartar are the same, but while they are similar, there are a few distinct differences.
Plaque VS Tartar on Teeth and Gums
When thinking about tartar VS plaque, the biggest differences to remember are how severely they each impact your oral health, at what point each one occurs, and how to remove them.
What is Plaque?
Plaque is a sticky film that coats your teeth and gum tissue, and can build up beneath the gum line. Plaque contains bacteria that eats away at your tooth enamel by producing harmful acids. This can result in tooth decay, also known as cavities.
There is no way to eliminate plaque entirely, but maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist for regular teeth cleanings in Chicago can help protect against the accumulation of dental plaque.
What is Dental Tartar?
Tartar is not the same thing as plaque, although it is related. Tartar is what develops when plaque buildup is not removed and it’s allowed to harden into tartar. Unlike plaque, which can be removed by brushing and flossing your teeth, tartar can only be removed by your dentist.
While plaque causes cavities, bad breath, and gum disease, tartar can lead to tooth sensitivity, discoloration, receding gums, and periodontitis (advanced gum disease). If left untreated, severe gum disease can result in dental infections and tooth loss.
How to Prevent Plaque & Tartar Build-Up
The best way to prevent plaque from gathering on your teeth and along your gum line is to maintain proper oral hygiene. Daily at-home care, like brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and drinking plenty of water will help protect your teeth and gums. Additionally, avoid sugary and starchy foods whenever possible, as these can contribute to acid erosion.
Finally, be sure to visit your dentist every six months for dental exams and cleanings. Professional teeth cleanings are performed to eliminate surface stains on teeth, and remove plaque that builds up in hard to reach areas like between teeth, around molars, and under the gum line.
Schedule an Appointment with Windy City Family Dental
If you’re concerned about your oral health and hygiene, and want to know more about how to protect your smile from tooth decay, plaque accumulation, and bacteria, request an appointment with us online, or call today at (312) 236-8065.
You can rely on Windy City Family Dental for general dentistry in Chicago, including teeth cleanings, comprehensive exams, dental X-rays, professional advice, and more.
