Key Takeaways
- The hard white stuff on your teeth is most likely dental calculus, also known as tartar.
- Dental calculus forms when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, hardens on your teeth.
- Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings can help prevent the buildup of dental calculus.
- Dental calculus can contribute to gum disease, cavities, and bad breath.
- Removing dental calculus requires professional intervention from a dentist or dental hygienist.
Have you ever noticed a hard white substance on your teeth that doesn’t seem to come off no matter how much you brush? You may be wondering what it is and how to get rid of it. In this article, we will explore the topic of dental calculus, also known as tartar, and provide you with valuable information on its causes, prevention, and removal.
What is Dental Calculus?
Dental calculus, or tartar, is a hard mineralized deposit that forms on the surface of teeth. It is usually yellow or brown in color and can be felt as a rough, bumpy texture. While dental plaque is a sticky film that forms on teeth throughout the day, dental calculus occurs when plaque is not effectively removed and hardens over time.
Causes of Dental Calculus Formation
The main cause of dental calculus formation is inadequate oral hygiene. When you don’t brush and floss your teeth regularly, plaque bacteria accumulate on the teeth and gums. Over time, minerals in your saliva, such as calcium and phosphate, mix with the bacteria to form dental calculus.
Table: Factors Contributing to Dental Calculus Formation
| Factors | Explanation |
| Poor oral hygiene | Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to the buildup of plaque |
| Saliva composition | Higher levels of calcium and phosphate promote calculus formation |
| Tobacco use | Smoking or chewing tobacco can increase calculus formation |
| Diet high in sugar and carbohydrates | Sugary and starchy foods provide an environment for plaque bacteria |
Effects of Dental Calculus
Dental calculus can have several negative effects on your oral health. One of the most significant impacts is its contribution to gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. When tartar builds up along the gum line, it can cause the gums to become swollen and inflamed. This can lead to symptoms such as bleeding gums, bad breath, and even tooth loss if left untreated.
Additionally, dental calculus provides a rough surface for plaque bacteria to adhere to, making it harder to remove plaque through regular brushing and flossing. This can increase the risk of cavities and tooth decay.
Prevention of Dental Calculus Buildup
Preventing dental calculus buildup is essential for maintaining good oral health. Here are some strategies you can incorporate into your daily routine to keep your teeth tartar-free:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to brush along the gum line and reach all surfaces of your teeth. Don’t forget to floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and along the gum line.
- Eat a balanced diet: Reducing the consumption of sugary and starchy foods can help prevent the buildup of plaque. Opt for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Schedule regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings. Your dentist or dental hygienist can remove any dental calculus that has formed and provide guidance on maintaining good oral hygiene.
Professional Dental Calculus Removal
If dental calculus has already formed on your teeth, it cannot be removed through regular brushing alone. Professional intervention is required to effectively eliminate tartar. During a dental cleaning, a dental hygienist or dentist will use specialized tools to carefully remove the calculus from your teeth, both above and below the gum line. This process is known as scaling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does dental calculus cause tooth sensitivity?
A: Dental calculus itself does not directly cause tooth sensitivity. However, it can contribute to gum disease, and inflamed gums can lead to tooth sensitivity. Therefore, treating gum disease and removing dental calculus can help alleviate tooth sensitivity.
Q: Is dental calculus the same as plaque?
A: No, dental calculus and plaque are not the same. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth, while dental calculus is the hardened form of plaque that adheres to teeth.
Q: Can I remove dental calculus at home?
A: Removing dental calculus requires professional intervention. While there are dental hygiene products available in the market that claim to remove tartar at home, these are not as effective as professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist.
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Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, is crucial for preventing dental calculus buildup and promoting overall oral health. By taking care of your teeth and gums, you can enjoy a healthy and confident smile for years to come.