Dental plaque Vs Tartar: Difference, Benefits, Importance (2024) – Health Care

Dental plaque and tartar are common oral health concerns, but they differ significantly in formation and impact. Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums after eating and drinking.

If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, a calcified deposit that adheres firmly to the teeth and can only be removed by a dental professional.

Understanding the differences between plaque and tartar is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

Dental Plaque vs. Tartar: Understanding the Differences

What is a Dental Plaque?

Formation of Plaque

Plaque develops when bacteria combine with food particles and saliva, forming a sticky film that adheres to tooth surfaces.

Composition of Plaque

Plaque consists primarily of bacteria, which produce acids that can damage tooth enamel, along with proteins from saliva and food residues.

Removal of Plaque

Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing are essential to remove plaque and prevent its buildup.

What is Tartar?

Formation of Tartar

When plaque remains on teeth, it can mineralize into tartar within a few days. Tartar forms both above and below the gum line.

Composition of Tartar

Tartar is a hardened deposit of minerals from saliva and plaque, typically appearing as a yellow or brown substance.

Removal of Tartar

Tartar cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone; it requires professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist.

Differences Between Plaque and Tartar

Appearance

• Plaque: Soft, sticky, and colorless or pale yellow.
• Tartar: Hard, rough, and typically yellow or brown.

Location

• Plaque: Develops on the surface of teeth and along the gum line.
• Tartar: Can form above and below the gum line and is firmly attached to teeth.

Impact on Oral Health

• Plaque: If not removed regularly, plaque can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
• Tartar: This can contribute to gum disease, and gum recession, and provides a surface for more plaque to accumulate.

Prevention and Treatment

Preventing Plaque Buildup

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria.
• Maintain a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks and drinks.

Preventing Tartar Buildup

• Follow good oral hygiene practices to prevent plaque from hardening into tartar.
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings.
• Consider using tartar-control toothpaste.

Treating Plaque and Tartar

• Plaque: Regular home care, including brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash.
• Tartar: Professional dental cleanings every six months to remove tartar and maintain oral health.

What Causes Plaque on Teeth?

Causes of Plaque Formation

Bacteria in the Mouth

Presence of Oral Bacteria The mouth naturally contains numerous types of bacteria. These bacteria feed on the sugars and starches from the food and drinks we consume, producing acids as a byproduct.

Food and Drink

Sugary and Starchy Foods Foods high in sugars and starches, such as candy, soda, bread, and pasta, provide a rich feeding ground for bacteria. When these foods are consumed, bacteria in the mouth metabolize the sugars, leading to acid production.

Frequent Snacking Frequent snacking or sipping on sugary drinks throughout the day can provide a constant supply of food for bacteria, increasing plaque formation.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Inadequate Brushing and Flossing Failing to brush and floss regularly allows plaque to build up on teeth and along the gumline. This buildup can harden into tartar, which is more challenging to remove.

Incorrect Brushing Technique Using improper brushing techniques, such as not brushing for the recommended two minutes or not covering all areas of the mouth, can leave plaque behind.

Dry Mouth

Reduced Saliva Production Saliva helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids produced by bacteria. Conditions that reduce saliva production, such as certain medications or medical conditions, can lead to increased plaque formation.

Impact of Plaque on Oral Health

Tooth Decay

The acids produced by bacteria in plaque can erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities.

Gum Disease

If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar and cause inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis. This can progress to more severe gum disease, or periodontitis, which can damage the structures supporting the teeth.

Bad Breath

The buildup of plaque can lead to halitosis, or bad breath, due to the presence of bacteria and their metabolic byproducts.

Prevention of Plaque Formation

Good Oral Hygiene Practices

Regular Brushing Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and prevent its buildup.

Daily Flossing Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gumline where a toothbrush can’t reach.

Healthy Diet

Limit Sugary and Starchy Foods Reduce your intake of sugary and starchy foods and drinks to decrease the food supply for bacteria.

Stay Hydrated Drink plenty of water to help wash away food particles and stimulate saliva production.

Regular Dental Visits

Professional Cleanings Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups to remove tartar and address any dental issues early.

What Causes Tartar on Teeth?

Causes of Tartar Formation

Plaque Buildup

Untreated Plaque The primary cause of tartar is the buildup of plaque that is not removed through regular oral hygiene practices. When plaque remains on the teeth, it can mineralize and harden into tartar within 24 to 72 hours.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Infrequent Brushing and Flossing Neglecting to brush and floss regularly allows plaque to accumulate on the teeth and gum line. This plaque can eventually calcify into tartar if not removed promptly.

Incorrect Brushing Technique Using improper brushing techniques, such as not brushing for the recommended two minutes or not thoroughly covering all areas of the mouth, can leave plaque behind, which can then harden into tartar.

Diet and Lifestyle

High-Sugar and High-Starch Foods Consuming a diet high in sugars and starches provides bacteria in the mouth with the fuel they need to produce acids that contribute to plaque formation, which can then harden into tartar.

Frequent Snacking Constant snacking or sipping on sugary drinks throughout the day can lead to a continuous supply of food for bacteria, increasing the likelihood of plaque buildup and subsequent tartar formation.

Smoking and Tobacco Use Smoking and using other tobacco products can increase the accumulation of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums.

Dry Mouth

Reduced Saliva Production Saliva plays a crucial role in washing away food particles and neutralizing acids produced by bacteria. Conditions that reduce saliva production, such as certain medications or medical conditions, can lead to increased plaque and tartar formation.

Impact of Tartar on Oral Health

Gum Disease

Tartar that forms above and below the gum line can irritate and inflame the gums, leading to gingivitis and periodontitis. These conditions can cause gum recession, tooth loss, and damage to the bone supporting the teeth.

Tooth Decay

The rough surface of tartar provides an ideal environment for plaque bacteria to thrive, which can lead to tooth decay and cavities.

Bad Breath

The presence of tartar and the bacteria it harbors can cause chronic bad breath, also known as halitosis.

Prevention of Tartar Formation

Good Oral Hygiene Practices

Regular Brushing Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque before it can harden into tartar.

Daily Flossing Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and along the gum line where a toothbrush cannot reach.

Healthy Diet

Limit Sugary and Starchy Foods Reduce your intake of sugary and starchy foods to decrease the food supply for bacteria that form plaque.

Stay Hydrated Drink plenty of water to help wash away food particles and stimulate saliva production, which helps protect against plaque and tartar.

Regular Dental Visits

Professional Cleanings Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings to remove tartar and prevent gum disease and other dental issues.

Dental Checkups Regular checkups allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and provide guidance on improving your oral hygiene routine.

Home Remedies to Manage Tartar Buildup

Baking Soda

• How to Use:
  • Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a paste.
  • Brush your teeth with this paste for about two minutes.
• Benefits:
  • Baking soda has mild abrasive properties that can help remove plaque before it hardens into tartar.

Oil Pulling

• How to Use:
  • Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil or sesame oil in your mouth for about 10-15 minutes.
  • Spit out the oil and rinse your mouth with water.
• Benefits:
  • Oil pulling can help reduce bacteria in the mouth, which can prevent plaque buildup.

White Vinegar Solution

• How to Use:
  • Mix two tablespoons of white vinegar with a cup of warm water.
  • Rinse your mouth with this solution once a day.
• Benefits:
  • The acidic nature of vinegar can help remove plaque and tartar.

Orange Peels

• How to Use:
  • Rub the inside of an orange peel directly on your teeth.
  • Let the residue sit for a few minutes before rinsing your mouth with water.
• Benefits:
  • The vitamin C and antimicrobial properties of orange peels can help reduce tartar buildup.

Aloe Vera and Glycerin

• How to Use:
  • Mix a teaspoon of aloe vera gel with a few drops of lemon essential oil and four teaspoons of vegetable glycerin.
  • Brush your teeth with this mixture once a week.
• Benefits:
  • Aloe vera has antibacterial properties that can help fight plaque.

Daily Oral Hygiene Practices

Brush Twice Daily

• How to Use:
  • Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste.
  • Brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day.

Floss Daily

• How to Use:
  • Floss helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline.

Use an Antiseptic Mouthwash

• How to Use:
  • Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria that cause plaque.

Regular Dental Checkups

• How to Use:
  • Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups to keep tartar under control.

Home Remedies to Remove Dental Plaque

Baking Soda

• How to Use:
  • Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste.
  • Brush your teeth with this paste for about two minutes.
• Benefits:
  • Baking soda’s abrasiveness can help scrub away plaque.

Oil Pulling

• How to Use:
  • Swish one tablespoon of coconut oil or sesame oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes.
  • Spit out the oil and rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
• Benefits:
  • Oil pulling helps reduce bacteria and plaque buildup.

Apple Cider Vinegar

• How to Use:
  • Dilute apple cider vinegar with water (1:2 ratio).
  • Gargle and swish the solution in your mouth for a few seconds.
  • Rinse your mouth with plain water afterward.
• Benefits:
  • Apple cider vinegar’s acidity can help break down plaque.

Citrus Fruits

• How to Use:
  • Rub the inside of a fresh orange or lemon peel on your teeth for a few minutes.
  • Rinse your mouth with water afterward.
• Benefits:
  • The natural acids in citrus fruits can help dissolve plaque.

Aloe Vera

• How to Use:
  • Use pure aloe vera gel as a mouthwash or toothpaste ingredient.
  • Brush or swish with aloe vera gel for a few minutes.
• Benefits:
  • Aloe vera has antibacterial properties that can reduce plaque formation.

Daily Oral Hygiene Practices

Brushing Twice Daily

• How to Use:
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
  • Brush for at least two minutes each session, covering all tooth surfaces.

Flossing Daily

• How to Use:
  • Use dental floss to clean between teeth and along the gumline.
  • Floss gently to remove plaque and food particles.

Tongue Scraping

• How to Use:
  • Use a tongue scraper to gently clean your tongue surface.
  • This helps remove bacteria that contribute to plaque formation.

Regular Dental Checkups

• How to Use:
  • Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and oral exams.
  • Professional cleanings remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup.

Consistency in these home remedies and oral hygiene practices can help prevent plaque buildup and maintain good oral health. However, for significant plaque buildup or persistent issues, consult your dentist for professional treatment and advice.

How Long Does It Take For Dental plaque To Turn Into Tartar?

Dental plaque can start to harden into tartar within as little as 24 to 72 hours if it is not removed through proper oral hygiene practices. Here’s a general timeline:

1. Formation of Plaque: Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums after eating and drinking.
2. Mineralization into Tartar: If plaque is not removed by brushing and flossing, it can mineralize and harden into tartar (also known as dental calculus). This process typically begins within 1 to 3 days.
3. Factors Affecting Tartar Formation: The speed at which plaque turns into tartar can vary depending on factors such as:
   • Oral Hygiene: How well you brush and floss your teeth.
   • Saliva Composition: Saliva can affect the formation of tartar.
   • Diet: Sugary and starchy foods can accelerate plaque formation.
   • Individual Factors: Some individuals may be more prone to rapid tartar formation than others.
4. Impact of Tartar: Tartar is harder to remove than plaque and can lead to more serious oral health issues such as gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) if not addressed through professional dental cleaning.

Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits are essential to prevent plaque buildup and the subsequent formation of tartar, thereby maintaining good oral health.

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Timeline of Dental Plaque to Tartar Formation

Formation of Plaque

• Description:
  • Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums after eating and drinking.

Mineralization into Tartar

• Time Frame:
  • Begins within 24 to 72 hours if plaque is not removed.

Factors Affecting Tartar Formation

• Oral Hygiene
  • Proper brushing and flossing prevent plaque buildup and tartar formation.
• Saliva Composition
  • Saliva affects how quickly plaque mineralizes into tartar.
• Diet
  • Sugary and starchy foods can accelerate plaque formation.
• Individual Factors
  • Some individuals may be more prone to rapid tartar formation.

Impact of Tartar

• Health Risks:
  • Tartar is harder to remove than plaque and can lead to gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) if not managed.

Maintaining consistent oral hygiene and regular dental visits are crucial to prevent plaque from hardening into tartar and to ensure overall oral health.

Does Mouthwash Remove Plaque?

Mouthwash can help reduce plaque buildup, but it typically doesn’t remove existing plaque as effectively as brushing and flossing. Here’s how mouthwash can contribute to oral hygiene:

Role of Mouthwash in Plaque Management

Antibacterial Action

• Function:
  • Mouthwashes often contain antibacterial ingredients (like chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride, or essential oils) that can help reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth.
• Effectiveness:
  • This can inhibit plaque formation and contribute to overall oral health.

Plaque Disruption

• Mechanism:
  • Some mouthwashes can help loosen and dislodge plaque from tooth surfaces and along the gumline.
• Impact:
  • While not as effective as physical removal by brushing and flossing, this can aid in reducing plaque accumulation.

Maintenance and Prevention

• Routine Use:
  • Regular use of mouthwash as part of a comprehensive oral hygiene routine can help maintain clean teeth and gums.
• Complement:
  • It complements brushing and flossing by reaching areas that may be missed, enhancing overall cleanliness.

Limitations

• Existing Plaque:
  • Mouthwash alone is generally insufficient for removing hardened plaque (tartar) or existing plaque that has adhered to teeth.
• Best Practices:
  • It is most effective when used in conjunction with brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups.

While mouthwash plays a supportive role in oral hygiene by reducing bacteria and helping to manage plaque buildup, it’s essential to prioritize brushing and flossing for thorough plaque removal and maintaining optimal oral health.

Conclusion

While mouthwash can contribute to reducing plaque buildup and maintaining oral hygiene, it is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Regular and thorough brushing, along with flossing, remains the cornerstone of effective plaque removal.

Mouthwash with antibacterial properties can complement these efforts by reducing bacteria and aiding in plaque management, but it does not effectively remove hardened plaque (tartar) or existing plaque deposits.

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