When it comes to your oral health, two words come up often during dental visits: plaque and tartar. While they are closely related, they are not the same thing. Understanding the difference can help you take better care of your teeth and gums and avoid bigger problems down the road. That’s why this month at Prime Smile, our trusted MA dentist is here to discuss what plaque and tartar really are and how they can affect your gums over time.
What Is Plaque?
Plaque is a soft, sticky film that constantly forms on your teeth and along the gumline. It is made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. After you eat or drink, especially sugary or starchy foods, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that can irritate your gums and attack tooth enamel.
Because plaque is colorless, it can be easy to miss. You might notice it as a fuzzy feeling on your teeth when you wake up or if you skip brushing. The good news is that plaque can be removed with good daily oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and using proper technique are your best defenses.
What Is Tartar?
Tartar, also called calculus, starts out as plaque. When plaque is not removed thoroughly, it hardens on your teeth within a day or two. Once it hardens, it becomes tartar. Unlike plaque, tartar is rough, porous, and firmly attached to the teeth. It often appears as a yellow or brown buildup, especially along the gumline or between teeth.
Tartar cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone. Its rough surface makes it easier for more plaque to stick, creating a cycle that can quickly lead to gum irritation and inflammation.
Why the Difference Matters for Your Gums
Both plaque and tartar play a major role in gum disease. Plaque bacteria release toxins that irritate the gums, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding. This early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. At this point, the damage can still be reversed with improved home care and professional cleanings.
When plaque hardens into tartar and remains on the teeth, it keeps the gums in a constant state of irritation. Over time, this can lead to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that may cause gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss if left untreated.
How Professional Cleanings Help
Even with excellent brushing and flossing habits, it’s very common for small areas of plaque to be missed. Professional dental cleanings remove both plaque and hardened tartar from places that are difficult to reach at home. Regular cleanings not only keep your teeth looking and feeling smooth, but they also protect your gums from long-term damage.
Prime Smile | MA Dentist
If it’s been a while since your last dental visit or you’ve noticed bleeding gums or buildup along your gumline, our trusted MA dentist from Prime Smile is here to help. Schedule a professional cleaning with our office today and let our team keep your smile healthy from the gums up!
