Tartar, or calculus, is a frequent and possibly deadly oral health issue that many individuals ignore despite its importance to general well-being. This post will cover further information regarding calculus teeth. Let’s get started.
What are Calculus teeth?
Calculus, which is also known as tartar, is a hard layer of dental plaque that forms on teeth. It is created by the combination of bacteria in saliva with minerals, which eventually hardens over time. Calculus, unlike plaque, sticks to the tooth surface and requires professional dental cleaning to remove.
Causes of Calculus Formation
Bad Dental Hygiene: Plaque can accumulate and become calculus by not brushing and flossing enough.
Diet: Diets heavy in sugar and carbohydrates raise the chance of developing calculus by promoting the production of plaque.
Saliva composition: People who have a lot of calcium in their saliva are more likely to develop calculus.
Smoking: Using tobacco accelerates the buildup of calculus and plaque.
Orthodontic Appliances: Braces, retainers, and other dental appliances that make cleaning teeth more difficult can increase plaque accumulation.
Health Implications of Calculus
Gum Disease: Calculus can cause gum irritation, which can result in gingivitis, periodontitis, and inflammation.
Tooth Decay: Acids produced by bacteria in calculus and plaque dissolve tooth enamel, leading to cavities.
Bad Breath: Prolonged bad breath is a result of bacteria that have accumulated in calculus.
Bone Loss: Untreated calculus-induced advanced gum disease can cause bone loss surrounding teeth.
Prevention of Calculus
Frequent Brushing: Use fluoride toothpaste to brush teeth at least twice a day, being especially careful around the gum line, which is where plaque likes to gather.
Flossing: Flossing on a daily basis helps get rid of plaque under the gum line and in between teeth.
Diet: Eat a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and low in sugar and starchy foods.
Frequent Dental Visits: Routine cleanings by professionals every six months aid in the removal of calculus and plaque that are missed by regular brushing and flossing.
Anti-Tartar Toothpaste: Applying toothpaste to stop the production of tartar can help lessen the accumulation of calculus.
Treatment of Calculus
Professional Cleaning: Calculus is removed from both above and below the gum line by dentists or dental hygienists using specialized instruments. We call this process “scaling.”
Root planing: This procedure smoothes the root surfaces in patients with advanced gum disease, enabling the gums to grow back into the teeth.
Antibacterial Mouthwash: To lower the bacterial load and stop plaque formation, dentists may suggest mouthwashes.
The Importance of Professional Care
Maintaining and preventing calculus accumulation requires professional dental care. Dentists can detect and treat any early signs of gum disease or other dental concerns in addition to maintaining the health of teeth and gums through routine check-ups and cleanings.
In conclusion
Calculus teeth are a serious threat to oral health because they can cause gum disease, tooth decay, and other issues. Good oral hygiene, dietary choices, and routine professional dental care can efficiently address calculus formation. Prioritising these preventive actions can achieve a better smile and general well-being.