What is Dental Stone?
Tartar, a hardened layer formed by the combination of minerals in saliva with plaque that develops on the surfaces of teeth due to the accumulation of plaque not being removed. Tartar typically forms on or below the gum line.
Food debris, saliva, and bacteria combine to form plaque, which, when not removed, mineralizes into tartar.
How Tartar Forms
Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hardened layer that forms by the hardening of plaque that adheres to the teeth. Plaque is a constantly developing sticky layer inside the mouth, consisting of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. When brushing and flossing are not performed regularly, plaque hardens over time, turning into tartar. Tartar typically forms on the inner surfaces of teeth or in between them, and it often appears as dark brown in color.
Symptoms of Tartar
The presence of food debris, dirt, and stains around the teeth indicates the beginning of tartar formation. This signals the onset of tartar formation and the need for preventive measures. Failure to address this early sign can lead to discomfort caused by tartar buildup in the mouth. It is essential to seek assistance from a dentist for the removal of tartar at this stage.
Undesirable Consequences Caused by Tartar
- Bad Breath: Foul breath may develop due to bacterial growth.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Tartar can lead to sensitivity to hot and cold substances by damaging tooth enamel.
- Gum Problems: Once tartar settles in, it can exacerbate certain gum diseases, often manifesting as gum inflammation.
- Tooth Decay: Tartar surrounds the outer surface of teeth, enabling bacteria to produce acids that damage tooth enamel, leading to cavities.
- Tooth Loss: Tartar can damage the bone tissue that supports teeth, resulting in tooth loss. In such cases, teeth may become prone to breakage or may need to be extracted.
Who is More Prone to Tartar Buildup?
While tartar can occur at any age, it may be more prevalent in certain individuals. Here are some situations where tartar buildup is more commonly observed:
- Smoking
- Irregular teeth alignment or gaps between teeth
- Lack of attention to oral hygiene
- Advanced age
- Diet rich in sugar and acids
- Insufficient saliva production or dry mouth
- Certain medications
In these situations, it is advisable to have dental check-ups more frequently.
Dental Tartar Cleaning Procedures by a Dentist
Seeking dental care from a dentist is crucial for a healthy tartar cleaning process. Dentists perform tartar cleaning using professional tools and specific techniques. This procedure, carried out by your dentist, can be seen as a significant step towards long-term cleanliness and dental health. The versatile tartar cleaning procedures applied by dentists include the following steps:
- Scraping off tartar deposits around the teeth using specialized instruments.
- Performing thorough cleaning using ultrasonic devices to reach even the deepest areas.
- Polishing the cleaned teeth and smoothing the surrounding areas.
- Removing any residue from the procedures around the teeth to achieve a clean appearance.
Tartar cleaning is essential for overall dental health, preventing bad breath, and maintaining a pleasant appearance. After tartar cleaning, it’s possible to enjoy clean and healthy teeth for an extended period. However, if you neglect your dental hygiene routine following tartar cleaning, the effects may be short-lived. Therefore, seeking support from your dentist for your oral and dental health routines is of utmost importance.
Benefits of Tartar Cleaning
Taking care of oral and dental health not only benefits physical well-being but also contributes to psychological health. Tartar cleaning, usually performed every 3-6 months, ensures healthier and brighter teeth. Adhering to a specific routine for tartar cleaning provides the following benefits:
- Prevents bad breath.
- Enhances the appearance of whiter teeth.
- Prevents gum recession.
- Helps prevent tooth decay.
- Prevents the formation of stains on teeth.
- Prevents psychological distress due to unwanted odor and appearance.
How to Prevent Tartar Formation
The primary solution for preventing tartar formation is regular brushing and flossing. Additionally, regular dental check-ups are crucial for both overall dental health and preventing tartar formation.
Basic methods to prevent tartar formation include:
- Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing daily.
- Using mouthwash.
- Regulating dietary habits.
- Avoiding tobacco products.
Is Tartar Cleaning Harmful?
Tartar cleaning, when performed under professional conditions, is not likely to cause damage to tooth enamel or gums. However, in rare cases, some individuals may experience minor bleeding or sensitivity in the gums after the procedure. These symptoms typically resolve on their own shortly after the cleaning.
Does Green Tea Prevent Tartar Formation?
Regular consumption of green tea can indeed help prevent tartar formation. Green tea can be consumed as a beverage or used as a mouthwash.
Does Baking Soda Prevent Tartar Formation?
Baking soda is an effective and natural product for dental hygiene. However, it is not recommended for tartar removal. Incorrect usage of baking soda can damage tooth enamel and lead to sensitivity.
Flossing for Tartar Removal
While using dental floss for tartar removal may seem like a practical method, it requires careful attention. Here are some points to consider when using dental floss, a preferred tool for routine oral care:
1. Use a 30 cm length of dental floss wrapped around your middle fingers carefully.
2. Gently slide the dental floss between the teeth, holding it taut.
3. Move the floss up and down gently to remove food particles between the teeth.
4. Be careful not to damage the gums during the process.
5. Avoid selective flossing; use dental floss between all teeth.
Post-Tartar Cleaning Care
After tartar cleaning, some individuals may experience slight gum sensitivity, which is normal and typically resolves on its own by the next day. Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages for a few days after the procedure.
Following tartar cleaning, refrain from consuming foods and beverages that can cause discoloration on the teeth. Examples include:
– Tea and coffee
– Tobacco and tobacco products
– Foods and beverages containing food coloring
– Acidic beverages
It’s not recommended to use dental floss on the day of tartar cleaning. You can resume your regular dental care routine afterward.
Is Tartar Cleaning Painful?
Tartar cleaning is generally not painful for patients, so it’s often performed without anesthesia. Patients may experience mild discomfort during the process. However, in rare cases of advanced tartar buildup, anesthesia may be necessary. It’s normal to experience some manageable discomfort after the procedure if anesthesia is used.
