Plaque vs. tartar: what are the major differences?
Learn the key differences between plaque and tartar, their impact on oral health and how to prevent buildup.
It’s easy to confuse plaque and tartar because both involve with bacteria on your teeth. But here’s the thing: they’re actually quite different. Plaque is a soft, sticky film that’s pretty harmless as long as you brush it away regularly.
Tartar is another story. When plaque hardens into tartar, it can lead to bigger problems like gum disease, tooth decay and even tooth loss if it’s not treated. Keeping plaque in check can help avoid the trouble that comes with tartar.
Let’s dive into all the basics of plaque and tartar, how they’re different and what you can do to prevent or treat them. Plus, we’ll share some simple tips to keep your smile healthy and strong.
Ready to say goodbye to plaque and tartar right now? Schedule an appointment with Aspen Dental today.
What is plaque?
Plaque is that slimy film you can sometimes feel on your teeth. Ever run your tongue over your teeth after a long day (or after some serious dessert snacking) and feel a bit of a film? That’s plaque.
Here are 5 things to know about plaque:
What it is: Plaque forms when food and saliva mix together, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.
What it looks like: It’s usually colorless or white, so chances are you won’t see it, but trust us, it’s there.
When it appears: Plaque builds up when you eat. Sugary or starchy foods like chips, candy or soda serve as a feast for bacteria, speeding up the process of plaque.
The danger: Plaque itself isn’t a huge issue—if you clean it off regularly. But leave it for longer than 24-72 hours, and it hardens into tartar, which is much harder to remove.
How to remove it: Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily and visit your local Aspen Dental location regularly for professional cleanings.
What is tartar?
Tartar is plaque’s tougher, nastier cousin. When plaque sits too long on your teeth, it hardens and calcifies into tartar, a rock-hard, yellow or brown substance that sticks to your teeth and gums.
Here are 5 things to know about tartar:
What it is: Tartar forms when plaque hardens and calcifies on your teeth, turning into a rough, solid deposit.
What it looks like: Tartar is hard, discolored and impossible to miss. Think yellow or brown stains on your teeth.
When it appears: Tartar develops when plaque isn’t removed within 24-72 hours, leaving it time to calcify into a crusty layer.
The danger: Tartar isn’t just a cosmetic issue. It can lead to gum disease (gingivitis), bad breath and even tooth loss if left untreated.
How to remove it: Tartar can’t be removed with regular brushing and flossing. You’ll need a dental hygienist to professionally clean and remove it using specialized tools.
Difference between plaque and tartar
Still confused about how plaque and tartar are different? Let’s break it down:
How it forms
Plaque is a soft, sticky film that builds up daily from bacteria, saliva and food particles. On the other hand, tartar forms when plaque isn’t removed in time and hardens, which can happen within 24-72 hours.
What it looks like
Plaque is usually colorless, so you might not even notice it’s on your teeth, although sometimes it can show up as a white film near the gumline. Tartar typically forms in harder-to-reach areas where saliva doesn’t naturally cleanse the surface, such as slightly under the gumline and between teeth. This means you can’t wait for visible signs of tartar to act.
How to remove it
The good news is that plaque is easy to deal with. Regular brushing and flossing will take care of it. Tartar, however, is a bit more stubborn. It requires a professional cleaning with special tools, so don’t try to scrape it off at home.
Going tooth-to-tooth with plaque vs. tartar
How to prevent plaque and tartar
You can keep your teeth sparkling and your oral health in top shape with just a few simple habits. Here’s how to keep your teeth clean and healthy
Brush like a pro: Use fluoride toothpaste and brush twice a day for at least two minutes. Electronic toothbrushes are more effective with removing plaque than manual.
Floss once a day: Your toothbrush can’t reach everything, but floss can. Clean between your teeth daily to tackle plaque hiding in the nooks and crannies.
Swish and rinse: Use an antibacterial mouthwash to wipe out extra bacteria and keep your mouth feeling fresh.
Skip the sugar rush: Sugary snacks and drinks fuel bacteria. Cut back and your teeth will thank you.
Visit your dentist: Even if you’re great at brushing and flossing, only a dental hygienist can remove hardened tartar. Schedule a cleaning every 6 months to stay ahead.
Plaque vs. tartar FAQs
How long does it take for plaque to turn into tartar?
Believe it or not, it only takes 24 to 72 hours for plaque to harden into tartar on your teeth. Things like how much saliva you have, how often you brush and floss, the amount of sugar in your diet and even whether your teeth are a bit crowded can all play a role in how quickly this happens.
How often should I get tartar removed?
However, if tartar builds up quickly or has caused gum and bone damage, a more involved initial procedure may be required. Afterward, you may be placed on a maintenance program, typically involving visits every 3-6 months, to keep your smile healthy and happy.
Can tartar break off your teeth?
Yes, tartar can break off your teeth. Since it’s essentially hardened plaque, it might come loose when you’re brushing, flossing or even eating crunchy or hard foods.
What happens if plaque isn’t removed?
If you don’t remove plaque from your teeth within 24 to 72 hours, it can harden into tartar. Once tartar forms, it can lead to bigger dental problems like gingivitis, cavities, tooth decay and even periodontal disease.
Maintain good oral health
The best way to stop plaque from turning into tartar is by sticking to good oral health habits and staying on top of oral health.
Need a little help? Schedule an appointment with Aspen Dental today. We’ll help you achieve a healthier smile and keep it that way—because your best smile starts here.