
Plaque and tartar do not affect everyone in the same way individuals vary greatly in their susceptibility and resistance. Dental Hygiene for Plaque and Tartar Buildup Certain types of chemicals called pyrophosphates help to decrease calculus buildup by stopping the growth of crystals on the tooth surface and preventing new crystals from forming. These calcium phosphate crystals eventually harden within plaque, forming calculus, i.e. Understanding CalculusĬalcium and phosphate bind to form crystals on the teeth. Its formation may also make it more difficult to remove new plaque bacteria, thus potentially creating problems further down the road. Tartar buildup on teeth creates a strong bond that can only be removed by a dental professional. For many of us, these deposits build up faster as we age.

These calcium phosphate crystals eventually harden within plaque buildup on teeth, forming calculus.Ĭertain types of chemicals called pyrophosphates help to decrease calculus build-up by stopping the growth of crystals on the tooth surface and preventing new crystals of tartar from forming. Calcium and phosphate bind to form crystals on the teeth. Tartar buildup on teeth, also called calculus, causes teeth discoloration and stains on your teeth. Plaque begins forming on teeth 4 to 12 hours after brushing, which is why it is so important to brush at least twice a day and floss daily as a part of oral care. Fighting plaque buildup on teeth is a life-long part of good oral care. The buildup of plaque can trap stains on the teeth, and it is also the primary factor in gum problems.

Plaque is a sticky, colorless deposit of bacteria that is constantly forming on the tooth surface. Individuals vary greatly in their susceptibility to tartar buildup. Are you wondering what tartar is? Tartar is a deposit that forms when plaque hardens on the tooth.
