Medical jargon can be intimidating and confusing for the layman. But, a few terminologies are used so frequently in the commercial sphere that we are desensitized to them. One such term is dental plaque. It is a word that is bombarded in advertisements, but ever wondered what dental plaque is? Let us find out.

Also known as microbial plaque, dental plaque is a soft, sticky film or layer that accumulates on the teeth. It is a highly sticky substance that is colorless to pale yellow. The interesting aspect is that dental plaque forms on our teeth every day, and we experience it as the slippery coating in the morning before brushing our teeth. Scientists call plaque a “biofilm” because it is a faction of living microorganisms engulfed by an adhesive layer of polymer. The purpose of the gluey layer is to help the microbes attach to the teeth’ surface and thrive into micro-colonies. Dental plaque is formed when saliva, food, and drinks combine to produce bacteria deposits. The bacteria in dental plaque secrete acids that attack the precious enamel, damaging the teeth and gums. Plaque is not malicious in its embryonic form, as we can easily remove it through regular brushing and flossing. But, dereliction in our daily oral hygiene routine can cause plaque to build up and form tartar which is a potent threat to our teeth and gums. 

What is tartar? How long does it take for dental plaque to turn into tartar? 

Our mouth is a habitable ecosystem for microorganisms. Bacteria and other organisms enter inside our mouths when we eat, drink, and breathe. The bacteria accumulate in a sticky layer to form plaque. In usual circumstances, a delicate balance is maintained in our oral ecosystem. But, when plaque is not regularly removed, it can assemble minerals from the saliva and harden into a brownish or yellow substance called tartar. Tartar builds up along the gum line, on the front and back of our teeth. 

It takes 24 to 72 hours for accumulated dental plaque to harden into tartar. Sixty-eight percent of adults have tartar, which is alternately known as dental calculus. Unlike dental plaque, tartar is stark yellow or brown and is easily recognizable on the teeth. Moreover, tartar is tough and so strongly bonded with the teeth’ enamel that we can only remove it through a professional cleaning session with the dentist. Those who suffer from dry mouth, use braces, have crowded teeth, or are chain smokers are more susceptible to tartar buildup. If tartar is not removed in due time, it can lead to several dental issues such as cavities, gingivitis, periodontitis, bad breath, and even tooth loss in severe cases. 

Prevention is better than cure, and this statement holds unrivaled significance in the world of oral hygiene. The best way to deal with tartar is to take precautionary steps and prevent it from forming. Thorough and regular brushing, flossing, and using a mouthwash are three of the rudimentary measures to keep teeth and gums healthy, happy, and tartar-free.

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