Dental Tartar
About Dental Tartar - What is it?
Dental tartar is the hardened form of bacterial plaque that forms on the teeth and below the gum line as well as on other hard structures in the mouth, such as dentures and implants. Plaque is a white or yellowish mass made up of bacteria, saliva and food debris which, when not removed properly by brushing and flossing, can harden and turn into tartar.
Tartar can lead to oral health problems such as tooth decay, gingivitis and periodontitis. As well as being an aesthetic concern due to its yellowish colour, it also contributes to bad breath, but its removal requires the intervention of an oral health professional as it cannot be eliminated with daily oral hygiene alone.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, regular maintenance appointments with an oral health professional and adopting healthy eating habits are key steps to preventing the formation of hardened bacterial plaque and maintaining good oral health, remembering that its removal by an oral hygienist or dentist is essential to avoid complications and guarantee a healthy, beautiful smile.
Possible Symptoms
The symptoms associated with the presence of hardened bacterial plaque can vary depending on the amount as well as the health of the mouth, but the most common include:
Visible Dental Deposits
Tartar is visible as hard, yellowish deposits on the teeth, especially along the gum line.
Gum Inflammation and Bleeding
The presence of tartar can cause inflammation of the gums, resulting in gingivitis and, in more serious situations, periodontitis. The gums can become red, swollen and bleed easily when brushing or flossing.
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Since tartar is rough, the accumulation of more bacteria on this structure can lead to persistent bad breath, which doesn't improve even with daily oral hygiene care.
Gum recession
Due to its harmful contribution to gum disease, tartar can cause the gums to recede, making the teeth appear longer due to the gradual exposure of the tooth roots, increasing the risk of tooth decay and tooth sensitivity.
Tooth Sensitivity
Exposure of the tooth roots due to gum recession can cause sensitivity, both to hot, cold or sweet foods and/or drinks, and during brushing.
Tooth Pain or Mobility
One consequence of unremoved tartar is that, in advanced cases of periodontitis, the teeth lose bone support and become mobile, and may even fall out.
Available Interventions
Tartar removal is essential to maintain the health of your mouth and prevent complications. Treatment options include professional procedures performed by an oral hygienist or dentist, as well as proper oral hygiene practices at home to prevent the formation of hardened bacterial plaque.
Oral Hygienisation (Prophylaxis):
During an oral hygiene appointment, the oral hygienist or dentist will remove tartar from the teeth using specialised equipment and instruments, and this prophylactic procedure is known as scaling, which is essential for maintaining oral health.
At MALO CLINIC we use Airflow technology, which provides a minimally invasive and painless experience, guaranteeing the removal of plaque, tartar and stains from the teeth. With this technology, biofilm and stains on the teeth are removed using a gentle jet of air and heated water, factors that provide a more comfortable experience for the patient, especially if they suffer from high tooth sensitivity. The GBT - Guided Biofilm Therapy - protocol, using a revealing dye, allows the oral hygienist or dentist to check and instruct the patient on the areas that need the most attention in their daily oral hygiene.
Scaling and Root Straightening:
In cases of gingivitis or periodontitis, it may be necessary to carry out a root scraping and smoothing. This procedure involves removing tartar and plaque below the gum line and smoothing the root surfaces of the teeth in order to promote gum adhesion.
Use of Antibacterial Oral Elixirs:
Antibacterial mouthwashes can help control plaque, reduce gum inflammation and tooth sensitivity, so these products can be recommended as part of an oral hygiene and oral problem prevention plan.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene:
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste for two minutes and flossing daily are essential for removing plaque before it turns into tartar. Brushing should include the gum line and all surfaces of the teeth.
Use of toothbrushes and dental floss:
For areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush, such as between teeth and near implants, the use of interdental brushes or specific dental floss can be effective in removing plaque and preventing tartar.
Healthy diet and avoiding sugary foods:
A balanced diet and reduced consumption of pasty foods can help prevent plaque formation. Foods rich in fibre, such as fruit and vegetables, promote the formation of saliva and the cleaning of teeth while chewing.
Regular consultations with the oral hygienist:
Visiting the oral hygienist or dentist regularly for check-ups and professional prophylactic interventions is key to detecting and removing tartar early. The frequency of visits can vary according to individual needs, but a visit every six months for an oral hygiene appointment is generally recommended.
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FAQ's
1. What causes tartar?
The hardened bacterial plaque that forms on teeth is caused by the mineralisation of plaque that is not removed by brushing and flossing. Plaque is formed from bacteria, saliva and food debris and, when it is not removed properly, it hardens and turns into tartar.
2. How can I prevent tartar?
Maintaining good oral hygiene, which includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily and visiting your oral health professional regularly for professional prophylactic interventions, can help prevent the formation of tartar. Avoiding pasty foods and eating a balanced diet are also important preventative measures.
3. Can tartar be removed at home?
No, you should visit your oral hygienist or dentist, who will have specialised equipment and instruments available for this purpose. Trying to remove it at home can cause irreversible damage to your teeth and gums.
4. Can tartar be dangerous?
Tartar can lead to gum disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis, which can cause bone loss, receding gums, tooth sensitivity and even premature tooth loss. In addition, it can affect the aesthetics of the smile.
5. Can mouthwashes prevent tartar?
Antibacterial mouthwashes can help control plaque and prevent gingivitis, but they cannot remove tartar that has already formed. They should be used as part of a complete oral hygiene routine to help prevent tartar formation.
6. Can tartar cause bad breath?
Yes, it can cause bad breath due to the accumulation of bacteria. These bacteria produce sulphur compounds that cause an unpleasant odour in the mouth and can damage self-esteem and social interactions.
7. Does tartar only affect adults?
No, tartar can affect people of all ages, including children. It's important to teach and supervise children's oral hygiene to prevent the formation of tartar and other dental conditions, as well as regular visits to the paediatric dentist.
8. What is the difference between plaque and tartar?
Bacterial plaque is a white or yellowish mass that constantly forms on the teeth from bacteria and food debris. When not removed properly, it can harden and turn into tartar, which is a mineralised substance that is more difficult to remove.
9. Are electric toothbrushes more effective at preventing hardened plaque?
Studies suggest that electric toothbrushes can be more effective at removing plaque compared to manual brushes, which can help prevent the formation of tartar. However, regardless of the type of brush, proper brushing technique is essential.
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