Tartar, scientifically known as calculus, is a hard, porous deposit that firmly adheres to the surfaces of teeth. Dental professionals must remove this substance because it represents a stage of bacterial colonization that cannot be removed at home. The presence of calculus requires specialized clinical intervention to prevent further complications.
Plaque Versus Tartar
The distinction between dental plaque and tartar is based on their physical state and removability. Plaque is a soft, sticky, colorless film composed primarily of bacteria, food debris, and saliva that constantly forms on the teeth. This bacterial biofilm can be removed easily through regular brushing and flossing.
If plaque is not thoroughly removed, it begins a process known as mineralization or calcification. Minerals naturally present in saliva precipitate into the plaque biofilm. This process causes the soft film to harden into calculus. Once calcification occurs, the resulting tartar bonds strongly to the tooth enamel and root surfaces, making it impossible to dislodge with standard oral hygiene tools.
The Dentist’s Removal Procedure
Removing hardened calculus requires professional tools and techniques designed to safely chip or vibrate the deposits away from the tooth surface. The standard procedure begins with scaling, which uses specialized instruments to mechanically remove the tartar.
Dental hygienists and dentists employ two main types of instruments for scaling: manual scalers and ultrasonic devices. Manual scalers, such as curettes, are hand-held instruments used for precise scraping above and slightly below the gum line. Ultrasonic scaling units use a rapidly vibrating metal tip that chips away the tartar. These tools also spray water simultaneously, which washes away debris and keeps the tip cool.
Scaling and Root Planing
For more advanced cases, where tartar has extended deep below the gum line and caused gum disease, a deeper procedure called scaling and root planing is performed. Scaling focuses on removing calculus from the crown and root surfaces. Root planing then follows, which involves smoothing the exposed root surfaces to eliminate rough areas that harbor bacteria. This smoothing action discourages the re-adherence of new plaque and promotes the reattachment of the gum tissue to the tooth root.
Health Risks of Ignoring Tartar
Allowing tartar to remain on the teeth creates a rough, porous surface that serves as a constant reservoir for bacteria. This persistent bacterial presence directly irritates the gum tissue, leading to the initial stage of gum disease known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily during brushing or flossing.
If the calculus is not removed, the inflammation will progress to a more severe condition called periodontitis. This advanced gum disease causes the supporting tissues and bone structure around the teeth to break down. The bacteria within the tartar release toxins that trigger the body’s inflammatory response, resulting in the destruction of the alveolar bone that anchors the teeth. This loss of bone and connective tissue can lead to gum recession, the formation of deep pockets between the tooth and gum, and eventually, tooth mobility and potential tooth loss.
Furthermore, the chronic inflammation caused by the bacterial infection is not confined to the mouth. Oral bacteria and inflammatory byproducts can enter the bloodstream, linking untreated periodontitis to systemic health concerns. Research suggests a connection between chronic gum disease and an increased risk for conditions like cardiovascular disease.
At-Home Prevention of Recurrence
After professional cleaning removes the calculus, daily maintenance is crucial to prevent its rapid reformation. The most effective defense against recurrence involves a consistent oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing twice daily for two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste.
Daily flossing is equally important, as it physically removes bacterial plaque from between the teeth and just beneath the gum line before it can mineralize. Using a tartar-control toothpaste, which contains chemical compounds designed to inhibit the calcification process, provides an additional layer of protection. Beyond hygiene, dietary choices significantly influence plaque formation; limiting the intake of sugary and starchy foods reduces the primary fuel source for plaque-forming bacteria.