Things You Need To Know About Plaque and Tartar

Most of the people think of plaque and tartar as two different names of the same thing. But the matter of fact is that both are different. And this difference is what you need to be concerned about while caring for your oral and overall health.

Eating has everything to do with it
The consumption of foods is the major reason for the development of plaque on the teeth. When we chew our foods, the food is broken down into particles which get mixed with saliva. This is the process different kinds of oral bacteria wait for. The bacteria consume these particles and grow exponentially.

Now, you can put an end to the creation of plaque by stopping eating but it’s something which is not possible for any living being. Instead, there are some ways you can slow down the process of creation of plaque.

How is the plaque formed?
Plaque is basically a soft and sticky substance which is formed on the teeth and gums throughout the day and night. It starts forming a few hours after you eat your foods. This sticky film essentially consists of food particles, bacteria and saliva. This colorless film is what makes your tooth look dirty.

The bacteria in the plaque keep consuming food particles to release an acid which attacks teeth and gums. This is the same kind of bacteria which can result in the development of gingivitis and cavities if the problem is left untreated.

The main purpose of brushing and flossing is to make sure that this bacterial growth remains interrupted at regular intervals. If you do not brush and floss your teeth, the plaque can turn into tartar.

Dealing with the tartar
When plaque is accumulated, it can mineralize to turn into tartar. The process of mineralizing and hardening is done in 24 to 72 hours. Tartar bonds with the tooth enamel quite strongly. This strong bond creates rough spots which can trap stains and allow bacteria to reside in and cause further damage to the teeth. If you have a dry mouth or you have the habit of consuming tobacco, you are at the bigger risk of developing tartar.

This tartar buildup can cause inflammation in the gums. This inflammation can lead to gingivitis which is the first stage of gum disease. And this tartar can weaken and break down the tooth enamel, leading to the development of cavities.

Proper brushing and flossing is the right way to prevent development of tartar. However, you need to consult your dentist if you have tartar buildup. You will get your teeth professionally cleaned and the tartar will be gone. However, you will have to make sure that you consult your dentist as soon as you can.