Understanding the Differences between Plaque and Tartar
Plaque and tartar are two dental concerns that most people are familiar with. These two conditions are typically associated with poor oral hygiene and are among the leading causes of dental problems. However, not everyone understands the differences between plaque and tartar. In this article, we will explore the dissimilarities between plaque and tartar, their uses, and how they can be prevented.
What is Plaque?
Plaque is a layer of bacteria that sticks to the teeth after eating and drinking, and it is one of the most common dental problems worldwide. It is responsible for most dental problems such as bad breath, cavities, and gum disease.
Examples of Plaque
Plaque can be identified as a sticky film that covers the teeth and is usually colorless or pale yellow. It is usually more noticeable when you don’t brush your teeth for a long time.
Uses of Plaque
As mentioned, plaque is one of the most common culprits of dental complications. Thus, it is imperative to maintain proper oral hygiene habits like brushing twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash. Using fluoride toothpaste can also help reduce the risk of tooth decay and help with plaque removal.
What is Tartar?
Tartar is a hardened plaque that has remained on the teeth for an extended period. This is the reason why it is more difficult to clean than plaque.
Examples of Tartar
Tartar is usually yellow or brown in color and can form anywhere in the mouth, including between the teeth and gums. It also has a rough texture, making it easy to notice with your tongue.
Uses of Tartar
Tartar can only be removed through professional dental cleaning. This is why regular visits to the dentist are essential in maintaining good oral hygiene.
Differences between Plaque and Tartar
| Difference Area | Plaque | Tartar |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | A layer of bacteria | Hardened plaque |
| Color | Colorless or pale yellow | Yellow or brown |
| Texture | Soft and sticky | Rough and hard |
| Formation | Forms within a day or two of eating and drinking | Forms when plaque is left on the teeth for an extended period |
| Removal | Can be removed through brushing and flossing | Requires professional dental cleaning for removal |
| Dental Complications | Causes cavities, gum disease, and bad breath | Causes gum disease, dental decay, and tooth loss |
| Severity | Less severe than tartar | More severe than plaque |
| Location | Covers the teeth | Forms anywhere in the mouth |
| Treatment | Can be removed with proper brushing and flossing | Requires professional dental cleaning or treatment |
| Prevention | Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups | Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups |
Conclusion:
To put it simply, plaque is a layer of bacteria that can be removed by proper oral hygiene measures, such as brushing and flossing, while tartar is a hardened layer of plaque that requires professional dental cleaning for removal. Both plaque and tartar contribute to dental complications like gum disease and tooth decay, which is why regular dental check-ups are essential in maintaining proper oral hygiene.
Knowledge Check:
1. What is plaque?
2. What happens if you leave plaque on your teeth for too long?
3. What is tartar?
4. Can you remove tartar by brushing and flossing?
5. What color is tartar?
6. How does tartar feel?
7. Can you remove plaque by professional cleaning?
8. Does plaque cause dental problems?
9. How can you prevent plaque and tartar?
10. Do you need regular dental check-ups to avoid plaque and tartar buildup?
Answers:
1. Plaque is a layer of bacteria that covers the teeth.
2. Leaving plaque on the teeth for too long can cause dental complications such as gum disease and tooth decay.
3. Tartar is hardened plaque that has remained on the teeth for an extended period.
4. No, tartar needs to be removed by a dentist through professional cleaning.
5. Tartar is usually yellow or brown in color.
6. Tartar has a rough texture.
7. Yes, plaque can be removed by professional cleaning.
8. Yes, plaque causes dental problems such as bad breath, cavities, and gum disease.
9. You can prevent plaque and tartar by practicing good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing daily and regular dental check-ups.
10. Yes, regular dental check-ups are essential in detecting plaque and tartar buildup.
Related Topics:
– Dental hygiene practices
– Causes and prevention of tooth decay
– How to prevent gum disease
