What Is Tartar?...CONTINUE READING
According to WebMD, even if you take excellent care of your teeth at home, bacteria remain in your mouth. They combine with proteins and food byproducts to form dental plaque, a sticky film. This gunk coats your teeth penetrates your gum line and adheres to fillings and other dental work.
Plaque contains bacteria that can harm tooth enamel and cause cavities. However, removing plaque regularly can help you avoid permanent tooth decay and gum disease.
However, bigger problems arise if plaque remains on your teeth and hardens into tartar.
Tartar, also known as calculus, develops below and above the gum line. It is rough and porous, resulting in receding gums and gum disease. It must be removed in the dentist’s office using specialized tools.
What Effect Does Tartar Have on Teeth and Gums?
Tartar can make it difficult to brush and floss as thoroughly as you should. Cavities and tooth decay can result from this.
Tartar that forms above your gum line may be harmful to your health. This is due to the bacteria in it causing irritation and damage to your gums. This could eventually lead to progressive gum disease.
Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. Brushing, flossing, using an antiseptic mouthwash, and visiting your dentist regularly can usually stop and reverse it.
Otherwise, it can deteriorate to the point where pockets form between the gums and teeth and become infected with bacteria. This is known as periodontitis. Your immune system sends chemicals to fight back, which mix with bacteria and other substances.
The stew that results can harm the bones and tissues that hold your teeth in place. Furthermore, some studies have linked the bacteria in gum disease to heart disease and other health issues.
Tips for Preventing Tartar
Your best bet is to avoid allowing tartar to form on your teeth. Here’s how it works:
1. Brush twice a day for 2 minutes each time. A 30-second scrub twice a day will not remove plaque or prevent tartar from forming. Brush your teeth with a brush with soft bristles that is small enough to fit inside your mouth. Include the difficult-to-reach surfaces behind your teeth and on your back molars.
2. According to research, electronic, or powered, toothbrushes may remove plaque more effectively than manual models. Whatever type you choose, make certain it has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. These have been subjected to stringent quality control and safety tests.
3. Use fluoride-containing tartar-control toothpaste. Fluoride will aid in the repair of enamel damage. Some products contain triclosan, a substance that fights bacteria in plaque.
4. Floss, floss, and floss some more. Dental floss is the only way to remove plaque between your teeth and keep tartar out of these difficult-to-reach areas, regardless of how good you are with a toothbrush.
5. Rinse once a day. Use an antiseptic mouthwash daily to aid in the killing of bacteria that cause plaque.
6. Keep an eye on your diet. Sugary and starchy foods feed the bacteria in your mouth. When they come into contact with those foods, they produce harmful acids. Try to eat a healthy diet and limit your intake of sugary foods. This also applies to snacks.
When you eat, you are also feeding the bacteria in your mouth. You don’t have to give up sweets or snacks in between meals. Just be mindful of how frequently you indulge. Brush your teeth and drink plenty of water before and after meals.
7. Quit smoking. Tartar is more common in people who smoke cigarettes or use other tobacco products, according to studies.
NOTE: Only a dental professional can remove tartar from your teeth once it has formed. So, see your dentist every six months to remove any plaque and tartar that has formed and to prevent future problems.
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