Tooth plaque: We all have it, and it’s a normal part of having a mouth. But it’s also something we need to manage to keep our teeth and gums healthy.
Understanding what tooth plaque looks like is key to knowing how to fight it effectively. If you know what you’re up against, you can be more vigilant about your oral hygiene routine.
This article will help you understand what plaque looks like and how it differs from tartar, so you can keep your smile bright and healthy.
What is plaque?
Plaque is a soft, sticky film that coats your teeth. It’s made of bacteria mixed with tiny bits of food.
After you eat or drink something, plaque starts to form. If you don’t remove it, it can lead to more serious dental problems, like cavities and gum disease. That’s why brushing and flossing are important!
What does plaque look like?
Plaque can be hard to spot, especially when it first forms.
Early-stage plaque
When plaque is new, it’s usually colorless or a pale yellowish or white film that’s hard to see with your naked eye. You might notice it as a “fuzzy” or rough feeling when you run your tongue over your teeth.
Advanced plaque buildup
As plaque accumulates and thickens, it becomes more visible. It may look like a white or slightly yellow coating on your teeth, particularly near your gumline.
Plaque tends to accumulate along the gumline, in between your teeth, and in the crevices of your molars.
Plaque vs. Tartar: A Visual and Textural Comparison
Plaque and tartar are both unwelcome guests in your mouth, but they’re not the same thing. Plaque is the precursor to tartar, and if you don’t remove plaque, it will eventually harden into tartar, also known as calculus.
What is Tartar?
Tartar is hardened plaque, and you can’t remove it yourself. You’ll need to see a dental professional to get rid of it.
Appearance of Tartar
Tartar is typically yellow or brown and is found both above and below the gumline.
Key Differences in Appearance and Texture
- Plaque: Soft, sticky, and often almost invisible, especially when it first forms.
- Tartar: Hard, rough, and visibly discolored.
If you notice tartar building up on your teeth, it’s time to schedule a cleaning with your dentist or dental hygienist.
How can I tell if I have plaque or tartar?
You can check for plaque and tartar at home using your tongue, your eyes, and disclosing tablets.
- Tongue: Plaque will feel fuzzy or rough. Tartar feels hard, like a crust.
- Visual Inspection: With a mirror and good lighting, look for a white or yellowish film on your teeth. That’s probably plaque. Hard, discolored deposits are likely tartar.
- Disclosing Tablets: You can buy these over the counter. Chew one up, and it will stain any plaque in your mouth, making it easy to see.
Keep in mind that a dentist is best equipped to distinguish between plaque and tartar and to assess the extent of the buildup on your teeth.
What happens if you don’t remove plaque?
When you don’t remove plaque, it hardens into tartar, sometimes called calculus. Tartar is rough and porous, and it can make it easier for even more plaque to accumulate.
If you don’t remove plaque and tartar, you may experience:
- Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)
- Tooth decay and cavities
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Possible tooth loss
How to prevent plaque
The best way to deal with plaque is to prevent it in the first place. You can do that by:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing every day.
- Using an electric toothbrush.
- Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash.
You can also limit plaque buildup by limiting the number of sugary and acidic foods you eat. Eating a balanced diet is good for your teeth and your overall health.
Putting It All Together
Plaque is the sticky, colorless film that forms on your teeth. If you don’t remove it, it hardens into tartar, also called calculus. Unlike plaque, you can’t get rid of tartar with brushing and flossing alone.
The best way to keep plaque and tartar from harming your teeth and gums is to brush and floss every day and see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. These simple steps can help you keep your smile healthy and bright for years to come.
Take good care of your teeth and gums, and they’ll take good care of you!