What is tartar In teeth?
Tartar, also known as calculus, is a hard, mineralized deposit that forms on teeth. It results from the accumulation of plaque, a soft, sticky film of bacteria that builds up on teeth and gums. When plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can mineralize and harden into tartar. Here’s a detailed look at what tartar is and its implications:
Formation of Tartar
Plaque Formation
- Daily Buildup: Plaque forms on teeth and gums throughout the day from food particles, bacteria, and saliva.
- Soft and Sticky: Initially, plaque is soft and can be easily removed with brushing and flossing.
Mineralization
- Calcium and Phosphate: When plaque is left on the teeth, minerals from saliva (calcium and phosphate) start to deposit and harden the plaque.
- Formation of Tartar: Over time, this mineralization turns plaque into tartar, which is a hard and rough deposit that adheres strongly to the teeth.
Types of Tartar
Supragingival Tartar
- Location: Forms above the gum line, usually on the chewing surfaces and near the back of the mouth.
- Appearance: Often visible as yellowish or brownish deposits on teeth.
Subgingival Tartar
- Location: Forms below the gum line, which can be harder to see and reach.
- Appearance: Typically darker in color, sometimes appearing black or dark brown.
Implications of Tartar
Oral Health Issues
- Plaque Accumulation: Tartar provides a rough surface that attracts more plaque, leading to further plaque buildup.
- Gum Disease: Can contribute to gum inflammation (gingivitis) and advanced gum disease (periodontitis).
- Cavities: The rough surface of tartar can increase the risk of tooth decay by trapping food particles and bacteria.
Aesthetic Concerns
- Staining: Tartar can lead to visible staining of teeth, affecting the appearance of your smile.
- Halitosis: Can contribute to bad breath (halitosis) due to bacterial growth.
Prevention and Removal
Daily Oral Hygiene
- Brushing: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque before it hardens into tartar.
- Flossing: Floss daily to clean between teeth and below the gum line, where plaque can accumulate.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
- Professional Cleanings: Dentists and dental hygienists use special tools to remove tartar through scaling and polishing.
Diet and Lifestyle
- Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet and limit sugary and starchy foods that contribute to plaque formation.
- Avoid Tobacco: Smoking or using other tobacco products can increase tartar build-up and gum disease risk.
Conclusion
Tartar is a hardened deposit on teeth formed from mineralized plaque. It contributes to various oral health issues, including gum disease and tooth decay. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings are essential for managing and preventing tartar buildup and maintaining overall oral health.
How can I remove hardened tartar from my teeth at home?
Removing hardened tartar from your teeth at home is not recommended, as it can lead to damage to your teeth and gums. Tartar, also known as calculus, is hardened plaque that cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing alone. It requires professional dental cleaning. However, there are ways to prevent tartar buildup and maintain good oral hygiene between dental visits. Here are some tips:
1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
- Brush Twice Daily: Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste. Brush for at least two minutes, covering all surfaces of your teeth.
- Floss Daily: Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline.
2. Use Antimicrobial Mouthwash
- Mouthwash: Rinsing with an antimicrobial or anti-tartar mouthwash can help reduce plaque and prevent tartar buildup.
3. Consider a Tartar-Control Toothpaste
- Tartar-Control Toothpaste: These toothpastes contain ingredients that help prevent tartar formation. Look for one with fluoride and antimicrobial agents.
4. Eat a Balanced Diet
- Limit Sugary and Starchy Foods: Reduce your intake of sugary and starchy foods and beverages, as they can contribute to plaque buildup.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help wash away food particles and bacteria from your mouth.
5. Regular Dental Check-ups
- Professional Cleanings: Visit your dentist regularly (typically every six months) for professional cleanings. Dental professionals use special tools to remove tartar safely and effectively.
6. Avoid Tobacco Products
- Quit Smoking: Smoking and using other tobacco products can increase tartar buildup and the risk of gum disease.
What You Shouldn’t Do
- Avoid Scraping Tools: Do not attempt to use dental tools, such as tartar scrapers, at home. Improper use can damage your enamel, gums, and cause injury.
- DIY Remedies: Be cautious with DIY remedies like baking soda or vinegar. While these might help with superficial plaque, they are not effective for removing hardened tartar and can be abrasive.
Professional Tartar Removal
The most effective way to remove tartar is through professional dental cleaning, where a dentist or dental hygienist uses specialized tools like scalers and ultrasonic devices to break down and remove tartar from your teeth and under your gumline.
Summary
While preventing tartar buildup is possible with good oral hygiene practices, removing existing tartar requires professional dental care. Regular dental visits, along with proper brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash, can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent tartar formation. If you have tartar buildup, schedule an appointment with your dentist for a thorough cleaning and evaluation.
Does pulling oil remove tartar?
Oil pulling is a traditional practice that involves swishing oil around in your mouth to improve oral health. While oil pulling can help with plaque removal and overall oral hygiene, it is not a substitute for professional tartar removal. Here’s what you need to know about oil pulling and its effects on tartar:
What is Oil Pulling?
- Method: Oil pulling involves swishing a tablespoon of oil (commonly coconut oil, sesame oil, or sunflower oil) around your mouth for 15-20 minutes, then spitting it out.
- Purpose: The practice is believed to help reduce bacteria, plaque, and improve gum health.
Effectiveness for Tartar Removal
Plaque Reduction
- Plaque: Oil pulling can help reduce plaque accumulation to some extent, as the oil helps dislodge and remove some of the soft plaque on teeth and gums.
- Bacteria: It may also help reduce bacteria in the mouth, contributing to overall oral health.
Tartar
- Hardened Plaque: Tartar, or calculus, is hardened plaque that has been on the teeth for a longer period and cannot be removed by oil pulling alone. Tartar requires professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist to be effectively removed.
- Prevention: While oil pulling may help reduce plaque build-up and slow the formation of tartar, it is not effective in removing existing tartar.
Benefits of Oil Pulling
- Oral Health: Some studies suggest oil pulling may help with reducing plaque, gingivitis, and bad breath.
- Gum Health: It may contribute to improved gum health and reduced inflammation.
Limitations and Recommendations
Not a Replacement
- Professional Cleaning: Oil pulling should not be considered a replacement for regular dental cleanings and check-ups. Professional cleaning is necessary to remove tartar and address any oral health issues.
Daily Oral Hygiene
- Brushing and Flossing: Maintain a regular routine of brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily to manage plaque and prevent tartar build-up.
Consult Your Dentist
- Advice: Discuss any additional oral health practices, such as oil pulling, with your dentist to ensure they complement your overall oral care routine.
Conclusion
Oil pulling may offer some benefits for reducing plaque and improving oral health but is not effective for removing hardened tartar. For tartar removal, professional dental cleanings are necessary. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental care remain the most effective methods for maintaining oral health and managing tartar build-up.
Can teeth tartar go away on its own?
No, tartar (also known as calculus) cannot go away on its own. Once plaque hardens into tartar, it requires professional intervention to be removed. Here’s why:
Why Tartar Doesn’t Go Away on Its Own
Hardening Process
- Plaque Formation: Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth daily. If not removed through brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar.
- Tartar Hardening: Over time, plaque minerals from saliva cause it to harden and become tartar, which forms a rough surface that attracts more plaque.
Inaccessibility
- Tools Required: Tartar forms both above and below the gum line. Its hard, mineralized nature makes it resistant to removal with regular brushing and flossing alone.
- Professional Tools: Dentists and dental hygienists use specialized instruments, such as scalers and ultrasonic devices, to break up and remove tartar effectively.
Implications of Untreated Tartar
Gum Disease
- Gingivitis: Tartar buildup can lead to gum inflammation, resulting in gingivitis.
- Periodontitis: If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which affects the supporting structures of the teeth and can lead to gum recession and tooth loss.
Tooth Decay
- Decay Development: The rough surface of tartar provides an ideal environment for plaque and bacteria, contributing to tooth decay.
Bad Breath
- Halitosis: Tartar can contribute to chronic bad breath due to bacterial growth.
Prevention and Management
Daily Oral Hygiene
- Brushing: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to help prevent plaque buildup.
- Flossing: Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and below the gum line.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
- Professional Cleanings: Schedule dental cleanings every six months or as recommended by your dentist to remove tartar and prevent its buildup.
Healthy Diet
- Limit Sugars: Reduce intake of sugary and starchy foods that contribute to plaque formation.
Conclusion
Tartar will not dissolve or go away on its own and requires professional removal by a dentist or dental hygienist. Regular oral hygiene practices and professional dental cleanings are essential for managing plaque and preventing tartar buildup.
Can mouthwash remove tartar?
No, mouthwash cannot remove tartar. While mouthwash can be beneficial for oral health, it does not have the capability to remove tartar, which is hardened plaque that has accumulated on your teeth. Here’s how mouthwash works and its limitations in dealing with tartar:
How Mouthwash Works
Bacteria Reduction
- Antimicrobial Properties: Many mouthwashes contain antimicrobial agents that help reduce bacteria in your mouth, which can contribute to plaque formation and bad breath.
Plaque Management
- Plaque Prevention: Mouthwash can help manage plaque by reducing bacterial growth and potentially preventing new plaque from forming, but it does not remove existing plaque or tartar.
Fresh Breath
- Odor Control: Mouthwash can help freshen your breath and temporarily mask bad odors.
Limitations for Tartar Removal
Tartar Hardness
- Hardened Plaque: Tartar is plaque that has hardened over time. Once it becomes tartar, it is too hard and firmly attached to the teeth to be removed by mouthwash.
Professional Removal Required
- Dental Tools: Removing tartar requires specialized tools and techniques, such as scaling instruments used by dentists and dental hygienists.
Complementary Use of Mouthwash
As Part of Oral Hygiene
- Routine: Use mouthwash as a complementary part of your daily oral hygiene routine. It can help reduce bacteria and freshen breath but should not replace brushing and flossing.
Plaque Management
- Prevention: Regular use of mouthwash may help reduce the formation of plaque and tartar by managing bacteria, but it does not replace the need for brushing and flossing.
Best Practices for Tartar Control
Brushing and Flossing
- Daily: Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup.
Professional Cleanings
- Dental Visits: Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings every six months to have tartar removed by a dental professional.
Healthy Diet
- Limit Sugars: Reduce consumption of sugary and starchy foods that contribute to plaque formation.
Conclusion
While mouthwash can be a helpful addition to your oral hygiene routine, it does not remove existing tartar. For effective tartar removal, professional dental cleanings are necessary. Maintain a regular routine of brushing, flossing, and professional dental visits to manage and prevent tartar buildup.
Which toothpaste removes tartar?
Toothpaste designed to help with tartar control typically contains specific ingredients that help prevent the formation of tartar and keep your teeth clean. However, it’s important to note that while these toothpastes can help reduce plaque and prevent new tartar from forming, they cannot remove existing tartar. Only a professional dental cleaning can remove hardened tartar.
Key Ingredients in Tartar-Control Toothpaste
Pyrophosphates
- Function: Help prevent the formation of tartar by inhibiting the mineralization of plaque.
- Examples: Sodium pyrophosphate and tetrapotassium pyrophosphate.
Zinc Compounds
- Function: Reduce the formation of plaque and tartar. Zinc citrate and zinc chloride are common.
- Examples: Zinc citrate, zinc chloride.
Fluoride
- Function: Helps in the remineralization of enamel and reduces plaque formation. While not directly removing tartar, fluoride strengthens teeth and helps prevent decay that can be exacerbated by plaque.
Calcium Carbonate
- Function: A mild abrasive that helps remove plaque and surface stains.
- Examples: Calcium carbonate.
- Silica
- Function: Provides gentle abrasion to help clean teeth and remove plaque.
- Examples: Hydrated silica.
Popular Tartar-Control Toothpaste Brands
Colgate Total
- Features: Contains pyrophosphate to help control tartar and fluoride for cavity protection.
Sensodyne Tartar Control
- Features: Combines tartar control with sensitivity relief and fluoride.
Oral-B Tartar Control
- Features: Includes ingredients to help prevent tartar build-up and maintain oral health.
Crest Tartar Protection
- Features: Contains pyrophosphate and fluoride to help prevent tartar and cavities.
Additional Oral Hygiene Tips
Regular Brushing
- Frequency: Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Technique: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular motions.
Flossing
- Daily: Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and below the gum line.
Professional Cleanings
- Frequency: Visit your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups every six months to remove any existing tartar and maintain oral health.
Healthy Diet
- Limit Sugars: Reduce intake of sugary foods and beverages that contribute to plaque formation.
Conclusion
Tartar-control toothpaste can help prevent tartar formation by managing plaque buildup and maintaining oral health. However, it cannot remove existing tartar, so regular dental cleanings are necessary to effectively manage and remove hardened tartar. Combining the use of tartar-control toothpaste with good oral hygiene practices and professional dental care is the best approach for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Does tartar removal hurt?
Tartar removal, generally performed during a professional dental cleaning, is usually not painful, but the experience can vary depending on several factors. Here’s what you can expect:
Factors Affecting Pain During Tartar Removal
Extent of Tartar Build-Up
- Minimal Tartar: If there is a small amount of tartar, the removal process is typically quick and comfortable.
- Extensive Tartar: For significant tartar build-up, the removal process may take longer and could cause some discomfort.
Gum Health
- Healthy Gums: If your gums are in good health, you are likely to experience minimal discomfort.
- Inflamed Gums: If your gums are inflamed or infected (due to conditions like gingivitis or periodontitis), you might feel more sensitivity or discomfort during the cleaning.
Cleaning Methods
- Manual Scaling: Involves using hand instruments to remove tartar. It may cause some pressure and discomfort but is generally well-tolerated.
- Ultrasonic Scaling: Uses high-frequency sound waves to break up tartar. This method is less likely to cause discomfort and can be more comfortable for patients.
Managing Discomfort During Tartar Removal
Local Anesthesia
- Application: For patients with significant tartar build-up or sensitive teeth and gums, the dentist might use a local anesthetic to numb the area, making the procedure more comfortable.
Communication
- Inform Your Dentist: Let your dentist know if you are feeling uncomfortable or have sensitive areas. They can adjust their technique or offer solutions to minimize discomfort.
Post-Procedure Sensitivity
- Temporary Sensitivity: After tartar removal, you might experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum tenderness. This usually resolves within a few days.
Aftercare Tips
Oral Hygiene
- Gentle Brushing: Continue brushing and flossing regularly to maintain oral health and prevent new tartar build-up.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Stick to softer foods for a few days if you experience sensitivity.
Pain Relief
- Over-the-Counter Remedies: If needed, over-the-counter pain relievers (such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can help manage any discomfort.
Follow-Up Care
- Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups to ensure ongoing oral health and address any issues early.
Conclusion
Tartar removal is generally not painful, though some discomfort can occur, especially if there is significant tartar build-up or gum inflammation. Modern dental techniques, including ultrasonic scaling and local anesthesia, help minimize discomfort. Maintaining regular dental visits and practicing good oral hygiene can help prevent extensive tartar build-up and associated discomfort.
What dissolves tartar?
Tartar (calculus) is a hard, mineralized deposit on teeth that cannot be dissolved with home remedies or over-the-counter products. Once plaque has hardened into tartar, it requires professional dental tools and techniques for removal. Here’s what you need to know:
Professional Tartar Removal
Scaling
- Manual Scaling: Dentists use hand instruments to physically scrape off tartar from the tooth surfaces.
- Ultrasonic Scaling: Uses high-frequency sound waves to break up and remove tartar. This method is effective for both supra- and subgingival tartar.
Polishing
- Polishing Tools: After scaling, dentists may use polishing tools and a special paste to smooth the tooth surfaces and remove any remaining plaque.
Preventive Measures and Tartar Management
Daily Oral Hygiene
- Brushing: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque before it hardens into tartar.
- Flossing: Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and below the gum line.
Tartar-Control Toothpaste
- Ingredients: Some toothpaste contains ingredients like pyrophosphates or zinc compounds that help prevent tartar buildup, but they do not dissolve existing tartar.
- Usage: Use tartar-control toothpaste as part of a comprehensive oral hygiene routine to manage plaque and prevent new tartar formation.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
- Professional Cleanings: Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings every six months to have tartar removed by a dental professional.
Home Remedies and Misconceptions
Baking Soda
- Usage: Baking soda is mildly abrasive and can help with plaque removal, but it does not dissolve or remove tartar.
- Effectiveness: It can assist in cleaning teeth but is not a substitute for professional tartar removal.
Vinegar
- Usage: While vinegar is acidic and can help with plaque removal, it does not effectively dissolve tartar.
- Effectiveness: It is not recommended for removing tartar and can damage tooth enamel with prolonged use.
Oil Pulling
- Usage: Oil pulling involves swishing oil around the mouth to remove bacteria and plaque. However, it does not dissolve tartar.
- Effectiveness: It may help with oral hygiene but is not a substitute for professional dental cleaning.
Conclusion
Tartar cannot be dissolved with home remedies or over-the-counter products. The most effective way to manage and remove tartar is through regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, can help prevent tartar buildup and support overall dental health.