Understanding Plaque and Tartar: What They Are and Why They Matter
When it comes to oral health, we’ve all heard of plaque and tartar, but what exactly are they? And why should we be concerned about them? Let’s break it down to understand these dental foes, why they’re harmful, and how maintaining a healthy mouth benefits your overall well-being.
What is Plaque?
Plaque is a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. It’s made up of bacteria, saliva, and food particles left behind after eating or drinking. Plaque begins to form almost immediately after brushing, which is why regular oral care is so important.
While plaque itself isn't necessarily harmful at first, the problem arises when it's not removed properly through brushing and flossing. Over time, the bacteria in plaque feed on sugar and carbohydrates, producing acids that can attack tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay.
What is Tartar?
Tartar, also called calculus, is what happens when plaque isn’t removed and hardens over time. Plaque that’s left on the teeth for too long mineralizes and turns into tartar. Tartar is much harder and more difficult to remove than plaque. In fact, it typically requires professional cleaning from a dentist or hygienist to get rid of it.
Unlike plaque, tartar is often yellow or brown and can form both above and below the gumline. Once tartar forms, it provides a rough surface for more plaque to stick to, creating a vicious cycle that can worsen oral health.
Why Are Plaque and Tartar Harmful?
1. Tooth Decay and Cavities: The bacteria in plaque produce acids that slowly erode tooth enamel. Over time, this can lead to cavities, which, if untreated, can result in toothaches and the need for fillings or more complex dental treatments.
2. Gum Disease: Plaque and tartar buildup near the gumline can irritate the gums and lead to gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Gingivitis causes red, swollen gums that may bleed when you brush. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can result in gum recession, loose teeth, and tooth loss.
3. Bad Breath: The bacteria in plaque and tartar contribute to persistent bad breath (halitosis). As plaque breaks down, it releases foul-smelling compounds. Tartar’s rough texture also allows bacteria to thrive, making the problem even worse.
4. Staining and Discolouration: Tartar often leads to visible staining, especially on the front teeth. Because tartar is porous, it can absorb the color from food, drinks, and tobacco, leading to yellow or brown discoloration that regular brushing can't fix.
5. Health Risks Beyond the Mouth: Emerging research has shown a strong connection between oral health and overall health. Poor oral hygiene, caused by plaque and tartar buildup, can increase the risk of serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and even respiratory infections. Infected gums can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, where they may trigger inflammation and contribute to these systemic health issues.
The Importance of Brushing and Flossing
Proper oral hygiene is the best defense against plaque and tartar buildup. Here’s why brushing twice a day and flossing daily are essential:
~ Brushing Twice a Day: Brushing your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste helps to remove plaque before it hardens into tartar. The act of brushing disrupts the bacterial film on your teeth, helping to keep harmful bacteria in check. It’s also important to brush for at least two minutes each time to ensure you’re reaching every part of your mouth, including the back molars and the gumline.
~ Flossing Daily: Brushing alone can’t reach all the nooks and crannies between your teeth, where plaque and food particles often hide. Flossing removes plaque and debris from between the teeth and along the gumline, areas that brushing may miss. This simple step greatly reduces your risk of both tooth decay and gum disease.
The Role of Fluoride
Fluoride is a key player in maintaining good oral health. It's a naturally occurring mineral that helps to strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. Many toothpastes contain fluoride, and it’s often added to public water supplies because of its proven ability to reduce tooth decay.
Fluoride works in two main ways:
~ Strengthens Enamel: Fluoride remineralizes enamel that has been weakened by acids, helping to reverse early stages of tooth decay.
~ Fights Plaque: Fluoride also has antimicrobial properties that help to reduce the amount of harmful bacteria in your mouth, further reducing plaque buildup.
How to Prevent Plaque and Tartar Buildup
~ Brush Twice a Day: Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for 2-3 minutes to remove plaque and prevent tartar from forming.
~ Floss Daily: Flossing or using interdental brushes removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline—areas that brushing may miss.
~ Use Mouthwash: An antimicrobial fluoride mouthwash can help reduce plaque buildup and kill bacteria in your mouth, adding an extra layer of protection.
~ Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist for regular cleanings, usually every six months. Dentists and hygienists can remove tartar that regular brushing and flossing can’t, and they’ll check for early signs of gum disease or cavities.
~ Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods: Sugary foods and acidic drinks (like fizzy drinks, coffee, and juice) feed the bacteria in your mouth, increasing plaque production. Reducing your intake of these foods can help protect your teeth.
To conclude
Plaque and tartar buildup may seem like minor issues, but they can lead to serious oral and overall health problems if left unchecked. By brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can prevent plaque from turning into tartar and protect your teeth and gums from decay and disease.
Remember, a healthy mouth is not just about a bright smile—it’s a key part of your overall health. Take care of your teeth, and your teeth will take care of you!