Is Tartar Normal on Teeth?

One of the procedures a dentist can perform during regular teeth cleaning is tartar removal. Also known as dental calculus, tartar is formed from bacterial plaque that hasn’t been removed through oral hygiene. It’s a hard, whitish or yellowish material that forms on different parts of the teeth.

The causes of this problem include the natural process of food residue buildup on the teeth, combined with inadequate or insufficient hygiene. As plaque comes into contact with the minerals present in saliva, it solidifies and forms tartar. Tartar is very common and normal on teeth, though it is an issue that needs attention.

What happens if tartar is not removed?

The presence of tartar on teeth can have several consequences for oral health. This happens because the bacteria present feed on the microorganisms in the oral cavity and, over time, a seemingly harmless condition can worsen, in some cases even leading to tooth loss.

Here are some problems that can be caused by not removing tartar:

Gingivitis – The buildup of tartar can reach the gums and cause inflammation in the area, resulting in gingivitis. This gum disease is characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gum tissue, especially when brushing teeth, flossing, or biting into something hard, such as an apple, for example.

Periodontitis – Periodontal diseases are the progression of gingivitis, being an even more serious problem that, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. This happens mainly in cases where gingivitis does not receive proper treatment or when oral hygiene is very inefficient, creating an environment where this type of problem can manifest.

Bad breath – There are numerous causes of halitosis, or bad breath. Tartar is one of them. Since tartar facilitates the onset of gum diseases such as periodontitis, it also promotes the spread of bad breath.

How to prevent tartar?

As you’ve seen, tartar forms on teeth due to food residue that accumulates and isn’t removed through oral hygiene. Check out some important habits to maintain good oral health.

1. Choose a good toothbrush, preferably one with soft bristles that won’t hurt your gums. If necessary, ask your dentist which type of toothbrush is most suitable for you. Replace your toothbrush every three months, or whenever you notice that the bristles are worn out.

2. Brush your teeth after every meal. With this simple habit, which doesn’t take much time, you can prevent tartar and several other oral diseases, such as cavities. Don’t forget to use dental floss. It is fundamental in the teeth cleaning process, as it can reach spaces that the toothbrush can’t. This helps prevent the formation and hardening of plaque between the teeth.

3. Maintain a balanced diet. Choose healthier foods that are beneficial for your entire body, including your mouth and teeth. Avoid foods high in sugar or carbohydrates, as they promote the production of plaque in the oral cavity.

4. Visit the dentist every six months. Regular checkups with a professional are essential for the evaluation, prevention, and early diagnosis of oral diseases.

How to treat tartar?

If tartar has already formed on your teeth, the only way to remove it is with the help of a professional. The dentist will clean the tartar using curettes and a dental ultrasound to scrape and smooth the tooth surface. Next, they will “wash” the teeth with jets of sodium bicarbonate, which helps eliminate deeper plaque. To finish the procedure, the dentist will polish and apply fluoride, which helps strengthen teeth and prevent cavities and other diseases. Call us today for a professional cleaning!

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