I am sure you have heard each one at least once: plaque, calculus and tartar.
Usually mentioned on your box of toothpaste or on the silly television commercial with the green gingivitis villain, but what do they all mean?
Are they all the same thing? Or are they even related at all? I am sure that you have heard at some point, probably in your early years the mention that plaque and tartar are not things that you want on your teeth and if you are older, you may have heard the term calculus thrown around a time or two in the dentist's office.
Calculus, tartar and plaque are all created by the same bacteria from the mouth- the difference lying in the amount of accumulation that has occurred and overall what stage the accumulation is considered to be at.
What is Plaque?
Plaque is the clear, sticky substance that develops on our teeth throughout the course of everyday. When we practice healthy oral hygiene, plaque is generally not a problem as brushing and flossing will sufficiently remove the plaque itself.
It is when proper oral hygiene is not practiced that plaque becomes a threat to the oral health of a patient, as plaque that is left to harden is referred to as calculus and tartar. Plaque left on the tooth will eventually make its way down beneath the gum line causing inflammation and potential infection.
Calculus and Tartar
Calculus and tartar refers to the same substance that is a result of the second stage of plaque accumulation where it is left to harden.
Hardened tartar or calculus poses a dangerous threat to the oral health of the patient as tartar leads to rapid tooth decay and will in every case need to be removed through special procedures performed by a periodontist.
Please contact us if you have any questions about plaque and tartar control.
Dr. Leslie Davis
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excellent care and attention
Once again, I want to thank you for all the excellent care and attention you so masterfully extended to me last year. I walked in terrified, with a tooth falling out, and left after wonderful treatment- better educated and with a transplant and confidence.
I have highly recommended you to my family and friends and join your many fans and satisfied patients.
Arizona Institute for Periodontics & Dental Implants | www.azimplantinstitute.com | (623) 584-0664
13802 W Camino del Sol, Suite 103, Sun City West, AZ 85375
Arizona Institute for Periodontics & Dental Implants, 13802 W Camino del Sol, Sun City West, AZ, 85375-4486 - Tags: Dental Implants Sun City West AZ /
Dental Implants Sun City West AZ /
(623) 584-0664 / www.azimplantinstitute.com / 12/5/2019
I am sure you have heard each one at least once: plaque, calculus and tartar. 
