Many people believe that dental plaque and tartar are the same. However, although they are related, they are not identical and affect the health of your teeth and gums differently. Knowing their differences is key to preventing cavities, gingivitis and more serious problems.
At ORÉ Dental Clinic we explain clearly everything you need to know.
At ORÉ Dental Clinic we explain clearly everything you need to know.
What is dental plaque?
Dental plaque is a transparent and sticky film that constantly forms on teeth and gums. It is composed of bacteria, food debris and saliva.
Characteristics of dental plaque:
• Forms daily
• Not always visible
• Appears a few hours after brushing
• Can be removed with good oral hygiene
When not properly removed, bacteria produce acids that attack tooth enamel and gums.
Characteristics of dental plaque:
• Forms daily
• Not always visible
• Appears a few hours after brushing
• Can be removed with good oral hygiene
When not properly removed, bacteria produce acids that attack tooth enamel and gums.
What is dental tartar?
Dental tartar (or dental calculus) appears when plaque is not removed in time and hardens by combining with minerals from saliva.
Characteristics of dental tartar:
• Hard and rough
• Can be yellow or brown
• Accumulates mainly at the gum line
• Cannot be removed with home brushing
Once formed, it can only be removed through professional dental cleaning.
Characteristics of dental tartar:
• Hard and rough
• Can be yellow or brown
• Accumulates mainly at the gum line
• Cannot be removed with home brushing
Once formed, it can only be removed through professional dental cleaning.
Main differences between dental plaque and tartar
| Dental plaque | Dental tartar |
|---|---|
| Soft and sticky | Hard and calcified |
| Forms daily | Forms over time |
| Can be removed at home | Requires professional cleaning |
| Causes cavities and gingivitis | Causes inflammation and periodontal disease |
What problems do they cause if not treated?
Both plaque and tartar can generate significant consequences:
• Dental cavities
• Bleeding gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Gingivitis and periodontitis
• Loss of bone support
• Tooth loss in advanced cases
Therefore, not feeling pain does not mean everything is fine.
• Dental cavities
• Bleeding gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Gingivitis and periodontitis
• Loss of bone support
• Tooth loss in advanced cases
Therefore, not feeling pain does not mean everything is fine.
How to prevent dental plaque and tartar?
Prevention is simple if you maintain an adequate routine:
• Brush at least 2 times a day
• Use dental floss daily
• Complement with mouthwash
• Reduce frequent sugar consumption
• Visit the dentist every 6 months for check-up and cleaning
• Brush at least 2 times a day
• Use dental floss daily
• Complement with mouthwash
• Reduce frequent sugar consumption
• Visit the dentist every 6 months for check-up and cleaning
How often should I get a dental cleaning?
In general, a professional dental cleaning every 6 months is recommended, although in some patients it may be necessary to do it more frequently, depending on their clinical evaluation.
Don't wait for the problem to advance
Removing plaque in time prevents it from becoming tartar and prevents more complex treatments in the future.
Schedule your evaluation at ORÉ Dental Clinic and keep your smile healthy, clean and aesthetic.
Schedule your evaluation at ORÉ Dental Clinic and keep your smile healthy, clean and aesthetic.