What is the difference between plaque and tartar?

When we brush our teeth we remove plaque or tartar? What about when we undergo a professional oral hygiene session?

Often there is confusion when it comes to plaque and tartar, so let us see what is the difference between one and the other and How to eliminate them to keep your mouth healthy!

Dental plaque

Also known as bacterial plaque, is a white or transparent film composed of bacteria and sugars, constantly forms inside the mouth and adheres to the teeth.

Plaque is mainly due to a Accumulation of food residue left in the mouth after each meal; plaque acid can attack teeth immediately after meals and if not removed with toothbrush and toothpaste, can break down enamel and cause tooth decay.

In addition, if plaque accumulates and Is not removed by oral hygieneand (or because it accumulates in areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush) solidifies and becomes tartar.

Tartar

Tartar is a Hard and porous substance, has a yellowish color and appears at the gum line: is the consequence of the Plaque that has not been removed and has hardened Because of the minerals in saliva.

If not removed, tartar continues to grow and calcify and can only be removed with the right tools during a professional oral hygiene session (It cannot be removed at home with toothbrush and toothpaste).

So the difference between plaque and tartar is that plaque is removed with oral hygiene at home, while tartar once formed can only be removed in the dental office with a professional oral hygiene session!

[Medical Director: Dr. Mauro Savio, Member of the Dentists Register Provincial Order of Surgeons and Dentists of Milan n. 4168].