What is Dental Tartar and How to Remove It?

A beautiful smile and a healthy mouth are things that no one can say no to. In fact, having a healthy mouth already gives you a memorable beautiful smile. To achieve this smile and not jeopardize your oral health, you need to be aware of certain dental diseases. One of these diseases, dental tartar, affects more than half of the population.

Even those who do not neglect their oral care routine can encounter tartar. Many patients have tried to prevent it with temporary measures but have not been able to get rid of it completely. Although this bothersome formation affects millions of people, many are unaware of what tartar is. Therefore, they do not know how to prevent it, how to deal with it if it occurs, or whether they need to visit a dentist.

The most effective way to treat a disease is to have all the information about it. In this article, we will discuss what dental tartar is and how to clean it, which might trouble you at some point in your life.

If you’re ready, let’s dive into our content!

What is Dental Tartar?

Dental tartar, also known as calculus, is the brown or yellow residue that results from the acid produced by bacteria on dental plaque. But how does a tooth become tartar-covered? Over time, plaque forms on teeth that are not well cared for and neglected.

Plaque that is not treated early begins to produce a large amount of acid in the mouth. The tooth enamel, which becomes defenseless and increasingly deformed against these acids, wears down over time. This wear typically results in tartar formation.

Tartar does not only form at the gum line. Rough and porous formations can also be found below the gum line. Many people try to remove tartar with a toothbrush. However, flossing, mouthwash, or other products are insufficient for this purpose. Tartar can only be cleaned with special tools by a professional dentist.

How is Dental Tartar Removed?

Dental tartar is very hard and strongly attached to the surface it adheres to. Therefore, it cannot be removed by brushing or flossing. Tartar can only be removed by professional dental cleaning performed by a dentist.

Dentists use special tools to remove tartar from above and sometimes below the gum line. Vibrating tools may also be used to break down advanced tartar. The following steps are commonly applied to clean dental tartar:

1. Identify the areas where tartar is attached in the mouth before the cleaning process.
2. Inform the patient about the procedure. Since it is painless, anesthesia is not applied.
3. Begin the cleaning process using special tools. This can take up to 10 minutes.
4. Repeat the brushing process until reaching the upper part of the gum line.
5. Perform final checks and inform the patient about the points they need to pay attention to.

How to Prevent Dental Tartar Formation?

Some people encounter dental tartar problems and consult a dentist even though they do not neglect their oral care. However, this does not mean that the condition will manifest in the same way for everyone and cannot be prevented.

Therefore, you can prevent the formation of dental tartar by taking necessary precautions. What you need to do is very simple! By making the following steps a routine part of your daily life, you can prevent the formation of dental tartar:

• Ensure you use a toothbrush that is suitable for your teeth.
• Opt for soft-bristled brushes instead of those that irritate your gums.
• Use dental floss several times a week, if not every day.
• Choose your toothpaste according to your needs. For example, you can prefer tartar-control toothpastes.
• Avoid consuming foods high in sugar content.
• Visit your dentist regularly each year. The expert dentists at BestSmile are always ready to support you in this matter!

Conclusion

Dental tartar is a common problem that can affect anyone, even those who maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Understanding what tartar is, how it forms, and how to effectively remove and prevent it is crucial for maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. Remember, professional dental cleanings are essential for removing tartar, and routine dental visits can help prevent its formation. If you have any concerns about tartar or other dental issues, the team at BestSmile is here to help. Schedule your appointment today!