Plaque vs. Tartar: Differences, Buildup and Prevention
Updated July 2026 | Clinically reviewed by Dr. Ella Choi
Plaque and tartar are related, but they’re not the same thing. Plaque is a soft, sticky film that builds up on your teeth and can harden into tartar if it isn’t removed. While plaque can be removed with regular brushing and flossing, tartar needs to be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.
What Is Dental Plaque?
Dental plaque is a colourless or pale yellow biofilm made up of bacteria, saliva and food particles. It forms naturally on the teeth, especially around the gumline and in areas that are harder to reach when brushing. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that can weaken tooth enamel and contribute to cavities and gum inflammation if plaque is not removed regularly.
What Is Tartar?
Tartar, also called dental calculus, forms when plaque stays on the teeth long enough to harden. It can develop above or below the gumline and often has a yellow or brown appearance. Unlike plaque, tartar cannot be removed with regular brushing and flossing. A dentist or dental hygienist needs to remove it using professional dental instruments.
Why Is Tartar a Problem?
Tartar creates a rough surface that makes it easier for more plaque to stick to the teeth. Over time, this buildup can irritate the gums and increase the risk of cavities and gum disease. Tartar is also more porous than tooth enamel, so it can absorb stains from coffee, tea, tobacco and other sources, making discolouration more noticeable.
Did You Know?
Plaque can be removed at home with regular brushing and flossing, but tartar requires professional removal.
Tartar can form both above and below the gumline.
Some people develop tartar more quickly than others, which is one reason regular dental cleanings are important.
How Do I Know If I Have Tartar Buildup?
Tartar often appears as a yellow or brown buildup along the gumline or between the teeth. It may also feel rough or hard when you run your tongue over your teeth. Plaque is much harder to see because it is usually colourless or pale yellow. If you’re unsure whether you have tartar buildup, a dentist or dental hygienist can identify it during a routine exam and cleaning.
How Can I Prevent Tartar Buildup?
The best way to prevent tartar is to remove plaque before it has a chance to harden. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and pay particular attention to the gumline and areas between the teeth where plaque can easily collect. Regular dental exams and professional cleanings also help remove buildup that may be difficult to reach at home.
How Is Tartar Removed?
Once tartar has formed, brushing and flossing won’t remove it. A dentist or dental hygienist uses professional instruments to carefully remove tartar from above and below the gumline during a dental cleaning. This process is called scaling and helps keep the teeth and gums healthy.
What Problems Can Plaque and Tartar Cause?
If plaque and tartar are allowed to build up, they can contribute to several oral health problems:
Cavities: Plaque bacteria produce acids that can weaken tooth enamel and eventually lead to tooth decay.
Gum disease: Plaque and tartar along the gumline can irritate and inflame the gums, increasing the risk of gingivitis and more advanced gum disease.
Bad breath: Bacteria in plaque can contribute to persistent bad breath, especially when buildup is not removed regularly.
Keep Plaque and Tartar Under Control
Good daily brushing and flossing can help prevent plaque from hardening into tartar, but professional cleanings are still an important part of maintaining healthy teeth and gums. If you’re noticing hard deposits around your teeth or gumline, or it’s been a while since your last cleaning, the team at Encore Dental can help remove tartar and keep your oral health on track.
