Plaque and tartar are common problems that can impact your oral health. Perhaps your dentist has mentioned one or both of these issues to you, but you’ve never really understood the difference between the two. While they’re often used interchangeably, these are distinct phenomenons. Here’s what you need to know.

A Simple Guide to Dental Plaque & Tartar

Understanding Plaque

Plaque is a sticky colorless or pale yellow film that develops when food particles and bacteria accumulate on teeth. The bacteria feed off of the sugars in the food particles, producing acids that gradually erode tooth enamel, causing cavities. Dental plaque that builds up along the gum line can lead to gum disease.

Understanding Tartar

Over time, as plaque buildup reacts with the minerals in saliva, it hardens into tartar. Dental tartar traps stains and appears as crusty yellow or brown deposits, usually along the gum line. These deposits are the leading cause of gum disease, which makes gums swell, turn red, and bleed easily. Advanced gum disease can result in receding gums, tooth loss, and even deterioration of the jawbone.

Dental Plaque & Tartar Removal

Plaque grows constantly, so good dental hygiene habits are the key to preventing it from accumulating. Limit your sugar intake, brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day, and visit your dentist every six months for professional teeth cleaning. If tartar does develop, it will have to be scraped off by a dentist (a process called scaling).

Nizich Family Dental is a locally owned and operated dental practice that has served the Juneau, AK, area for over 10 years. Whether it’s time for your regular checkup, you have a toothache, or you’re interested in teeth whitening treatments, their family dentistry team has the knowledge and skill to provide the personalized dental care you need. Call (907) 789-7001 today to schedule a dentist appointment or visit their website to learn more about their services.