Tartar and Plaque

Caring for your teeth requires careful attention, as they are highly susceptible to various dental issues, including cavities, plaque, tartar, and tooth decay. Your teeth are shielded by enamel, the body's hardest substance. However, neglecting proper dental care can lead to the accumulation of plaque, which, if not removed, hardens into tartar.

Tartar build-up can progress into gum disease, impacting overall dental health. It is crucial to differentiate between plaque and tartar to take appropriate measures. Understanding the contrast between these two substances is vital for identification and proper action.

     Plaque           

Appears as a slimy, colorless film on teeth, forming when bacteria mix with saliva and food.


Contains various bacteria, some beneficial and others harmful, which produce acid when you consume sugary foods, attacking tooth enamel and causing dental issues.


Can be removed through regular brushing, flossing, and dental appointments.
 

Tartar

Forms when plaque hardens over time, trapping stains and causing discoloration. Feels rough and appears yellow or brown.


Develops when residual plaque reacts with saliva minerals, coating teeth surfaces and potentially spreading beneath the gum line.


Requires professional removal by a dentist as it cannot be eliminated through regular brushing or flossing.

 

 

Causes of Dental Plaque and Tartar:

  • Poor oral hygiene, especially after consuming sugary or starchy foods, feeds oral bacteria, accelerating plaque formation.
  • Other causes include dry mouth due to dehydration or medications, smoking, excessive sugar consumption, and a history of neck or head radiation.

Symptoms of Plaque and Tartar:

  • Plaque is indicated by a fuzzy feeling on teeth and can lead to bad breath, swollen, bleeding gums, and tooth and gum diseases.
  • Tartar symptoms include tooth abscess, chronic bad breath, teeth discoloration, and gum inflammation.

Treatment for Plaque and Tartar:

  • Maintaining an effective oral care routine is crucial.
  • Severe cases may require professional treatments like fluoride applications, medications to counteract dry mouth, antibacterial mouthwash, dental sealants, and plaque removal procedures.
  • Proper brushing with advanced tools like THE BROOSH electric toothbrushes and regular flossing can prevent plaque accumulation.

Preventing Tartar Build-up:

  • Brush teeth twice a day with products like THE BROOSH Electric Toothbrush, which offers various modes and ensures comprehensive coverage.
  • Floss regularly using dental floss like THE BROOSH Essential Mint Floss to remove hard-to-reach plaque.
  • Limit sugary snacks and beverages; if consumed, brush and floss immediately.
  • Attend regular dental appointments for professional cleaning and tartar removal.
  • Consider dental sealants for additional protection against cavities and tooth decay.

Understanding the differences between plaque and tartar and following preventive measures with advanced dental products can help maintain excellent oral health and prevent potential dental issues.