How Plaque Turns into Tartar

Maintaining a healthy smile goes far beyond brushing your teeth once or twice a day. One of the most common issues people face is the buildup of plaque and tartar. While they may sound similar, they are quite different—and tartar, in particular, can cause long-term damage if left untreated.

Whether you're brushing regularly or visiting a dentist near you, understanding the process of how plaque turns into tartar can help you take the right steps to protect your oral health.

What Is Plaque?

Plaque is a soft, sticky film made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. It constantly forms on your teeth and gums, especially after eating. If removed regularly through brushing and flossing, plaque is relatively harmless. However, when it’s left sitting on the teeth for too long, it hardens and turns into something much more stubborn—tartar.

How Plaque Becomes Tartar

When plaque isn’t removed within 24 to 72 hours, it begins to mineralize from the calcium and phosphate in your saliva. Over time, it hardens into a rough, yellowish or brown substance called tartar (or dental calculus). Once tartar forms, it becomes much more difficult to remove with regular brushing and flossing.

This is why it’s important to schedule regular visits to a dental clinic in NE Calgary or wherever you're located. A professional cleaning is the only effective way to remove tartar once it has formed.

Why Tartar Is a Problem

Tartar is more than just a cosmetic concern. It creates a rough surface that traps more plaque, leading to issues such as:

• Gum inflammation and gingivitis

• Persistent bad breath

• Tooth decay and cavities

• Advanced periodontal disease

Left untreated, tartar buildup can result in gum recession, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.

How to Prevent Tartar Buildup

Preventing tartar starts with preventing plaque. Here are a few tips:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

• Floss daily to clean between teeth and below the gumline

• Use an antimicrobial or tartar-control mouthwash

• Cut down on sugary and starchy foods

• Visit a NE Calgary dentist every six months for a professional cleaning

When to See a Dentist

If you notice hardened yellow or brown deposits near your gumline, or if your gums are swollen or bleed during brushing, it’s time to book an appointment with a dentist in NE Calgary. A professional cleaning can remove tartar and get your oral health back on track.

Don’t wait for minor plaque buildup to become a major issue. A simple visit to a dentist near you can help prevent future dental problems and keep your smile healthy and bright.