What is tartar?

Tartar, sometimes called calculus, is plaque that has hardened on your teeth. When plaque keeps on your teeth for a long time, minerals from the saliva become incorporated into the plaque, causing it to harden and attach to the surfaces of your teeth. Tartar can also form at and underneath the gumline and can irritate gum tissues. Tartar gives plaque more surface area on which to grow and a much stickier surface to adhere to, which can lead to more serious conditions, such as cavities and gum disease.

Not only can tartar threaten the health of your teeth and gums, but it is also a cosmetic problem. Unlike plaque, which is a colorless film of bacteria, tartar is a mineral buildup that’s quite easy to see above the gumline. When The most common color it shows is yellow or brown. So if you are a coffee or tea drinker, or if you smoke, it is easy to form the tartar on your teeth if not removed properly.

Potential oral problems caused by tartar:
Cavities: Oral bacteria feeding on the sugars we consume leads to the production of acids that contribute to tooth decay and enamel erosion.
Gingivitis: Accumulation of plaque and tartar can lead to gum inflammation, which can cause a mild form of gum disease known as gingivitis. Signs of gingivitis can include swollen, red, tender, and bleeding gums. If not managed, gingivitis can progress into a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontal disease.
Bad Breath: Tartar buildup can contribute to strong oral odors.

Suggestions for preventing tartar:
1. Brushing regularly, twice a day for 2 minutes a time. Be sure to make the hard-to-reach surface cleaned.
2. Using electric toothbrushes. It’s approved that electric brushes work better in getting rid of the plaques than manual ones.
3. Rinsing your mouth with a fluoride mouthwash. The fluoride-contained mouthwash is helpful to repair enamel and fight the bacteria in plaque.
4. Flossing. Dental floss is the only way to remove plaque between your teeth and keep tartar out of these hard-to-reach areas.
5. Eating a healthy diet. You do not need to give up all the unhealthy food. Just be careful about how often you indulge, and limit the amount of sugary food or junk food you eat.
6. Visiting your dentist regularly. visit your dentist every 6 months to remove any plaque and tartar that might have formed and to prevent further problems.