Dental Tartar

Dental Tartar: Causes, Risks, Prevention, and Treatment

Dental tartar is a hard buildup of plaque that forms on teeth and gums. When plaque is not regularly removed through brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, a substance that can only be removed by a dentist.

Causes of Dental Tartar Formation:

1. Poor Oral Hygiene:

   • When teeth are not cleaned properly and regularly, plaque that contains bacteria accumulates and eventually hardens into tartar.

2. Diet Rich in Sugars and Starches:

   • Foods and drinks high in sugars and starches feed bacteria in the mouth, leading to acid production, which contributes to plaque formation and eventually tartar.

3. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia):

   • Saliva helps wash away bacteria and food particles from the mouth. When saliva production is low, the risk of plaque buildup and tartar formation increases.

4. Smoking and Tobacco Use:

   • Smokers are more prone to tartar buildup on their teeth, especially in the front areas of the mouth.

Risks of Dental Tartar:

1. Gingivitis:

   • Tartar can irritate the gums, causing inflammation and swelling, which can lead to bleeding during brushing.

2. Periodontitis:

   • If tartar is not removed, it can cause gum recession and damage the tissues and bones that support the teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.

3. Bad Breath (Halitosis):

   • Tartar buildup can cause bad breath due to the bacteria accumulated on the teeth and under the gums.

4. Tooth Decay:

   • Tartar can block the spaces between teeth and gums, making it difficult to clean these areas and contributing to tooth decay.

5. Tooth Discoloration:

   • Tartar often has a yellow or brown color and can stain teeth, affecting their aesthetic appearance.

How to Prevent Dental Tartar Formation:

1. Regular Tooth Brushing:

   • Teeth should be brushed twice daily for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste. An electric toothbrush can be used for more effective cleaning.

2. Daily Flossing:

   • Cleaning between the teeth with dental floss daily helps remove plaque before it turns into tartar.

3. Using Mouthwash:

   • An antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth, thereby reducing tartar formation.

4. Healthy Diet:

   • Avoiding foods and drinks high in sugars and starches and drinking plenty of water helps maintain adequate saliva flow.

5. Regular Dental Visits:

   • Regular visits to the dentist (at least every 6 months) for professional teeth cleaning and tartar removal are essential.

Treatment of Dental Tartar:

• Scaling:

  • This is a process performed by a dentist using special tools to remove tartar buildup on the teeth and above and below the gum line.

• Tooth Polishing:

  • After tartar removal, the teeth are polished to smooth their surface, helping to reduce future plaque buildup.

• Improved Home Oral Care:

  • After tartar removal, it's important to follow a strict oral care routine to prevent the tartar from forming again.

Conclusion:

Dental tartar is a health issue that should not be ignored, as it can lead to serious complications such as gum disease and tooth loss. Proper oral hygiene, including daily brushing and regular dental visits, is the best way to prevent tartar formation and maintain healthy teeth and gums.