Preventing Plaque and Tartar Buildup: What You Need To Know

Man smiling at the dentist after a dental cleaning
Regular dental checkups and dental cleanings help keep your teeth plaque and tartar-free. Visit your dentist every 6 months for cleanings.

When most of us hear words like sticky, bacteria, acid, and decay, it’s easy to cringe—and with good reason! These words describe what happens when plaque and tartar build up on our teeth. But don’t worry—understanding what they are and how to prevent them can make a big difference in keeping your smile healthy.

What Is Plaque?

Plaque is a soft, colorless, and sticky film made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. It forms on your teeth throughout the day—especially after eating or drinking. When sugars and starches from your food come into contact with plaque, the bacteria produce acids that attack tooth enamel.

These acid attacks can last for up to 20 minutes after you eat or drink. Over time, repeated exposure weakens your enamel and can lead to cavities, tooth sensitivity, and gum irritation. Because plaque is constantly forming, it’s important to remove it daily through brushing and flossing.

Dental tartar or plaque removal, 3D rendering.
Dental tartar or calculus does not come off with brushing or flossing and must be removed by a dentist using special tools.

What Is Tartar?

Tartar (also known as calculus) is what happens when plaque is left on your teeth long enough to harden. Once it mineralizes, tartar becomes a rough, yellowish or brown deposit that tightly bonds to the enamel surface. Unlike plaque, tartar cannot be removed by brushing or flossing—it requires professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist.

As tartar builds up, it makes it easier for more plaque to stick to your teeth and can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis), decay, and even periodontal disease. Because tartar tends to accumulate faster as we age, consistent professional dental cleanings are important.

How to Prevent Plaque and Tartar Buildup

To stop tartar from forming, you need to stop plaque before it hardens. Here are simple but effective ways to protect your teeth and gums:

  • Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste designed to fight plaque.
  • Floss daily to remove bacteria and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline.
  • Use mouthwash to reduce bacteria and provide longer-lasting protection after brushing.
  • Replace your toothbrush every three months—or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Many toothbrushes include color indicators to remind you when it’s time.
  • Maintain a balanced diet and limit sugary or starchy snacks that feed plaque bacteria.
  • Rinse or brush after snacks whenever possible.
  • Visit your dentist regularly for exams and professional cleanings to remove any tartar buildup and keep your oral health on track.

Keep Your Smile Healthy

Completely avoiding plaque isn’t possible—it’s a natural part of your mouth’s ecosystem. But with good oral hygiene habits and regular dental visits, you can prevent tartar, cavities, and gum disease.

Your smile—and your wallet—will thank you for the effort! If it’s been a while since your last cleaning, schedule an appointment today. We look forward to seeing your smile!

Related Posts