Have you observed brown, yellow, or hard deposits on your teeth that are resistant to brushing? That’s calculus, also known as tartar, which is a hardened type of plaque that adheres to your gums and teeth. Tartar, in contrast to soft plaque, sticks firmly to enamel and can only be eliminated by a dentist.
What is the Difference Between Plaque and Tartar?
The difference between plaque and tartar is:
- Plaque: A sticky, bacterial coating called plaque develops on teeth on a regular basis. It can be eliminated with brushing and flossing.
- Tartar: If tartar, or hardened plaque, is not removed from teeth, it will calcify onto them in a matter of 24 to 72 hours. It is irreversible once produced.
How is Tartar Harmful?
Tartar accumulation results in:
Bad Breath: Halitosis, or bad breath, is caused by bacteria in tartar that create unpleasant-smelling substances.
Cavities and tooth decay: Tartar accelerates decay by trapping microorganisms against the enamel.
Gum disease (periodontitis & gingivitis): Tartar irritates the gums, resulting in recession and inflammation.
Teeth Stain: Teeth are darkened by tartar, which collects stains from smoking, coffee, and tea.
Dental Cleaning is the Only Solution
When it comes to eliminating tartar, professional dental cleaning is the only solution. Here’s what happens during a professional dental cleaning:
Examination
Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums thoroughly before starting any cleaning. They will use a tiny mirror and probe to look for cavities that could require treatment, visible tartar accumulation, and indications of gum disease (such as redness or swelling).
Dental X-rays are frequently used to uncover tartar deposits that are concealed beneath the gum line or in between teeth and are invisible to the human eye.
Tartar Removal
Scaling is the first step in the primary cleaning procedure, during which your dentist removes tartar using specialized instruments. An ultrasonic scaler, which breaks up and removes big tartar deposits using high-frequency vibrations and a water spray, is used to remove tartar.
Polishing
Your teeth are polished once all of the tartar has been eliminated. The dentist applies a toothpaste-like polish with a prophy cup that is fastened to a slow-speed handpiece. This procedure makes it harder for new plaque to stick by smoothing out the small roughness that scaling causes on your tooth surfaces.
How Often Should You Get Professional Dental Cleaning?
The frequency of professional dental cleaning varies from person to person. For the majority of people, getting a professional dental cleaning every six months is the best way to keep their teeth and gums healthy and avoid serious tartar accumulation. To limit bacterial development and stop more damage, those with gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) or a history of significant tartar buildup should see their dentist more frequently, every three to four months.
Additionally, because nicotine and dark beverages speed up the growth of tartar and staining, smokers and caffeine addicts may need more frequent cleanings, possibly every four to five months.
Ending Note!
You cannot ignore or get rid of tartar at home. Only a dentist can safely remove it once it has formed. Postponing expert cleanings results in gum disease, tooth loss, expensive root planing, and teeth discoloration.
Visit us at Signature Smiles and let us treat your dental issue effectively. Call us to book your appointment.
