You’ve probably heard of “tartar,” but not many people are aware of its significance. How can it impact your oral health and hygiene? What is the difference between plaque and it? These questions and many more can be found in the following article.
Plaque is not the same as tartar.
People generally mistakenly think plaque and tartar are the same thing because they are often mentioned together. But there are many differences between plaque and tartar. First, plaque is a colour-less, sticky film of bacteria which hides within your teeth.
You don’t have to worry about plaque. With good dental hygiene, it can be easily removed. But, if you don’t brush or floss away plaque, it will calcify into a hardened, brownish substance called tartar. This substance is harder to remove and can lead to serious oral health problems.
Tartar buildup can be clearly seen.
Tartar, unlike plaque is easy to see. Tartar is naturally darker and porous. It can hold substances like tobacco or coffee, making it harder to remove. If you are unsure if tartar buildup is present, look for a yellow or brown deposit at your gum line.
You may have tartar buildup from your diet.
Do you wonder why tartar buildup could be happening? Take a look at your diet! Because these foods are highly plaque-friendly, starchy and sugary foods are likely to cause tartar buildup. A healthy and balanced diet will help prevent tartar formation.
Tartar can cause oral health problems.
Tartar buildup along the gum line can lead a variety of dental health problems. Gum inflammation can start with tartar, and eventually lead to gingivitis. Gingivitis, which is the initial stage of gum disease, can lead to a serious condition called gingivitis. It has been linked to stroke, heart disease and premature birth.
Tartar buildup is easily prevented
It is easy to avoid tartar with good dental hygiene. Just brush your teeth once a day, after meals, and at least twice a day.
Plaque can also build up between your gums and teeth, so floss regularly. An antiseptic mouthwash can also kill harmful bacteria. You should also avoid smoking cigarettes. This can cause tartar to build up.
You will need to have tartar removed by your dentist if you have it on your teeth.
A toothbrush and floss alone will not remove tartar. To remove tartar buildup from your teeth, a dentist will use a technique called scaling.