Tartar on Teeth (Dental Calculus): Causes & Removal

Overview

What is tartar?

Tartar, also known as dental calculus, refers to the hard deposit that forms on your teeth when plaque hardens. Unlike plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria, tartar is calcified and can significantly affect oral health if not addressed properly.

What is tartar made of?

Tartar is mainly composed of calcium phosphate crystals. It originates from plaque, which is a biofilm of bacteria and their by-products on the teeth’s surface. Once plaque accumulates and mineralizes over time, it turns into tartar, a much harder substance to remove.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the symptoms of tartar on teeth?

The primary symptoms of tartar buildup include:

• Discolored teeth, often presenting as a yellow or brownish coloration along the gumline or between the teeth.
• A rough or gritty feeling on the teeth where the tartar has formed.

Does tartar smell bad?

Yes, tartar can harbor bacteria that produce unpleasant odors, leading to bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth.

What causes mouth tartar?

Mouth tartar is directly caused by the hardening of dental plaque. Factors contributing to tartar formation include poor oral hygiene, irregular dental cleanings, and individual tendencies based on saliva composition and dietary habits.

Risk factors for tartar

Several factors increase the risk of developing tartar, such as:

• Smoking or using tobacco products
• Diabetes
• Irregular brushing and flossing habits
• Aging

Impact of Diet on Tartar Formation

Diet plays a crucial role in the formation of tartar. Consuming sugary and starchy foods in excess can fuel the bacteria in plaque, accelerating its conversion into tartar. Limiting intake of such foods and maintaining a balanced diet can help mitigate tartar buildup.

What are the complications of having tartar on your teeth?

Tartar buildup can lead to several oral health complications, including tooth decay, gum disease, and potentially tooth loss if left unchecked.

Diagnosis and Tests

How do dentists diagnose tartar?

Dentists can identify tartar through a visual examination and by feeling the teeth surfaces with dental instruments. Tartar presents as a rough, hard deposit on the teeth, often found near the gum line.

Management and Treatment

How do you treat tartar?

The main treatment for tartar involves professional dental cleaning. This can include:

• Scaling to remove tartar from above and below the gumline
• Root planing to smooth rough spots on the root surfaces where germs gather

In cases of gum disease associated with tartar buildup, more intensive treatments may be necessary.

Prevention

How can I prevent tartar buildup?

Preventing tartar buildup primarily involves maintaining good oral hygiene. Recommendations include:

• Brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Visiting the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups

Choosing the Right Dental Products

Using the right dental care products can also play a significant role in preventing tartar buildup. Opting for toothpaste and mouthwashes with anti-tartar ingredients can help inhibit plaque from hardening into tartar. Consulting with a dental professional can help in choosing the most effective products for your oral health.

Outlook / Prognosis

What happens if I don’t remove tartar?

If tartar is not professionally removed, it can lead to severe oral health issues, including gum disease, tooth decay, and eventually tooth loss.

Living With

How often should I see my dentist for tartar removal?

It’s recommended to visit the dentist for a professional cleaning and checkup at least once every six months, though some individuals may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health status.

Additional Common Questions

Plaque vs. tartar: What’s the difference?

Plaque is a soft, sticky film that continuously forms on teeth and can be removed by regular brushing and flossing. When plaque accumulates and hardens over time, it transitions into tartar, a calcified substance that requires professional dental intervention to remove.

Why is tartar breaking off my teeth?

Tartar breaking off the teeth is uncommon and might indicate that the tartar buildup is extensive. It’s important to seek dental care if you notice fragments of tartar coming loose to prevent further oral health issues.

Why do I have black tartar on my teeth?

Black tartar on teeth can occur due to certain foods, beverages, or smoking, which stain the tartar buildup. This type of tartar can also signify advanced dental issues and should be examined by a dental professional.