Calculus vs. Tartar — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on March 28, 2024
Calculus is a branch of mathematics focused on change and motion, while tartar is a hard deposit that forms on teeth due to plaque mineralization.
Difference Between Calculus and Tartar
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Calculus, in the realm of mathematics, explores concepts of limits, derivatives, integrals, and infinite series. It's fundamental in understanding the dynamics of change and motion in physical systems, making it crucial for fields like physics, engineering, and economics. On the other hand, tartar, also known as dental calculus, refers to the hardened plaque that accumulates on teeth. It forms when the mineral components in saliva crystallize on dental plaque, leading to potential dental health issues like cavities and gum disease.
While calculus deals with abstract concepts and provides tools for modeling and solving problems across various scientific domains, tartar is a concrete, physical substance that poses challenges to oral health. Dental professionals emphasize the importance of regular cleaning to prevent tartar buildup, highlighting a focus on hygiene and health maintenance. In contrast, studying calculus involves intellectual engagement with mathematical principles, aiming to equip students and professionals with analytical skills.
The development of calculus marked a significant evolution in mathematical thought, driven by the work of pioneers like Newton and Leibniz. It expanded the scope of mathematical applications, enabling the detailed analysis of complex systems. Conversely, the formation of tartar is a biological process influenced by individual hygiene practices and lifestyle choices, reflecting biological and chemical reactions in the human body.
Understanding calculus requires a foundation in mathematical concepts and logical reasoning, often demanding rigorous study and practice. Tartar formation, however, is a natural consequence of biological processes that can be mitigated through preventive dental care, such as brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. Both calculus and tartar, despite their vastly different domains, underscore the importance of foundational knowledge—whether in solving mathematical problems or maintaining oral health.
Comparison Chart
Domain
Mathematics
Dentistry
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Nature
Abstract concepts
Physical substance
Purpose
Analyzing change and motion
Result of plaque mineralization
Impact
Advances in science and engineering
Dental health issues
Mitigation/Study
Intellectual engagement and study
Dental hygiene practices
Compare with Definitions
Calculus
Study of change using derivatives.
Calculus helps predict the trajectory of a moving object.
Tartar
Hardened dental plaque.
Tartar buildup can lead to gum disease.
Calculus
Involves limits and infinite series.
Limits are used in calculus to define the slope of a curve.
Tartar
Forms from mineralization.
Saliva minerals cause plaque to harden into tartar.
Calculus
Fundamental in physics and engineering.
Calculus is essential for understanding fluid dynamics.
Tartar
Preventable with good oral hygiene.
Regular brushing prevents tartar formation.
Calculus
Integration to find areas and volumes.
Using calculus, the area under a curve can be calculated.
Tartar
Requires professional cleaning to remove.
Dentists use special tools to remove tartar.
Calculus
Tools for modeling complex systems.
Calculus models the growth rate of populations.
Tartar
Can cause cavities and tooth decay.
Unchecked tartar contributes to dental cavities.
Calculus
Calculus, originally called infinitesimal calculus or "the calculus of infinitesimals", is the mathematical study of continuous change, in the same way that geometry is the study of shape and algebra is the study of generalizations of arithmetic operations. It has two major branches, differential calculus and integral calculus; the former concerns instantaneous rates of change, and the slopes of curves, while integral calculus concerns accumulation of quantities, and areas under or between curves.
Tartar
See Tatar.
Calculus
(Medicine) An abnormal concretion in the body, usually formed of mineral salts and found in the gallbladder, kidney, or urinary bladder, for example.
Tartar
(Dentistry) A hard yellowish deposit on the teeth, consisting of organic secretions and food particles deposited in various salts, such as calcium carbonate. Also called calculus.
Calculus
(Dentistry) See tartar.
Tartar
A reddish acid compound, chiefly potassium bitartrate, found in the juice of grapes and deposited on the sides of casks during winemaking.
Calculus
The branch of mathematics that deals with limits and the differentiation and integration of functions of one or more variables.
Tartar
A red compound deposited during wine making; mostly potassium hydrogen tartrate — a source of cream of tartar.
Calculus
A method of analysis or calculation using a special symbolic notation.
Tartar
A hard yellow deposit on the teeth, formed from dental plaque.
Calculus
The combined mathematics of differential calculus and integral calculus.
Tartar
(dated) A fearsome or angrily violent person.
Calculus
A system or method of calculation
"[a] dazzling grasp of the nation's byzantine budget calculus" (David M. Alpern).
Tartar
A reddish crust or sediment in wine casks, consisting essentially of crude cream of tartar, and used in marking pure cream of tartar, tartaric acid, potassium carbonate, black flux, etc., and, in dyeing, as a mordant for woolen goods; - called also argol, wine stone, etc.
Calculus
Calculation; computation.
Tartar
A correction which often incrusts the teeth, consisting of salivary mucus, animal matter, and phosphate of lime.
Calculus
Any formal system in which symbolic expressions are manipulated according to fixed rules.
Lambda calculus
Predicate calculus
Tartar
A native or inhabitant of Tartary in Asia; a member of any one of numerous tribes, chiefly Moslem, of Turkish origin, inhabiting the Russian Europe; - written also, more correctly but less usually, Tatar.
Calculus
Differential calculus and integral calculus considered as a single subject; analysis.
Tartar
A person of a keen, irritable temper.
Calculus
A stony concretion that forms in a bodily organ.
Tartar
See Tartarus.
Calculus
Deposits of calcium phosphate salts on teeth.
Tartar
Of or pertaining to Tartary in Asia, or the Tartars.
Calculus
(countable) A decision-making method, especially one appropriate for a specialised realm.
Tartar
A salt used especially in baking powder
Calculus
Any solid concretion, formed in any part of the body, but most frequent in the organs that act as reservoirs, and in the passages connected with them; as, biliary calculi; urinary calculi, etc.
Tartar
A fiercely vigilant and unpleasant woman
Calculus
A method of computation; any process of reasoning by the use of symbols; any branch of mathematics that may involve calculation.
Tartar
A member of the Mongolian people of central Asia who invaded Russia in the 13th century
Calculus
A hard lump produced by the concretion of mineral salts; found in hollow organs or ducts of the body;
Renal calculi can be very painful
Tartar
An incrustation that forms on the teeth and gums
Calculus
An incrustation that forms on the teeth and gums
Calculus
The branch of mathematics that is concerned with limits and with the differentiation and integration of functions
Common Curiosities
What is tartar?
Tartar, or dental calculus, is a hardened deposit that forms on teeth when plaque accumulates and mineralizes.
How can tartar be prevented?
Tartar prevention involves maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.
How do calculus and tartar differ?
Calculus is an abstract mathematical field focused on change and motion, while tartar is a physical condition related to dental health.
Why is calculus important?
Calculus is crucial for understanding and solving problems in physics, engineering, and many other scientific fields.
What role does calculus play in technology?
Calculus underpins many technological advancements, from computer simulations to engineering designs.
What is calculus?
Calculus is a branch of mathematics that studies how things change, using concepts like derivatives and integrals.
What's the relationship between plaque and tartar?
Plaque that is not removed can mineralize and turn into tartar, a harder substance that's difficult to remove.
Do animals get tartar?
Yes, animals can get tartar, especially pets, which is why regular dental care is important for them as well.
What happens if tartar is not removed?
If not removed, tartar can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and potential tooth loss.
Is calculus hard to learn?
Calculus can be challenging but is manageable with study and practice, building on foundational mathematical skills.
How is calculus used in everyday life?
While not always visible, calculus is used in various aspects of everyday life, including finance, construction, and medical imaging.
How often should tartar be removed?
Dental professionals recommend professional cleaning every six months to prevent tartar buildup effectively.
Can tartar affect overall health?
Yes, tartar can lead to gum disease and other oral health issues, which may have broader health implications.
Can anyone learn calculus?
Yes, with the right foundation in mathematics and dedication, anyone can learn calculus.
Can calculus predict future events?
Calculus can model and predict the outcomes of dynamic systems, making it a powerful tool in science and engineering.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
