What is the difference between plaque and tartar?

ByBrian “Weence” Bateman

Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria. If not removed, it hardens into tartar, a hard deposit that requires professional cleaning to remove.

Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria. If not removed, it hardens into tartar, a hard deposit that requires professional cleaning to remove.

Brian “Weence” Bateman is a health and medical writer who covers public health updates, healthcare policy, and medical developments affecting communities across the United States. He works closely with dentists and healthcare providers and focuses on making complex medical information clear, accurate, and useful for everyday readers.