Dental calculus, also known as tartar, is a hardened deposit that accumulates on teeth. It poses a risk to gum health and overall oral hygiene. Understanding how calculus forms and its professional removal methods is important for maintaining a healthy smile.
What is Calculus?
Calculus is hardened dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, food particles, and saliva that constantly forms on teeth. If plaque is not removed regularly, minerals from saliva begin to harden it. This process can start within 24 to 72 hours if plaque remains undisturbed. Once calcified, calculus adheres strongly to the tooth surface and cannot be removed by regular brushing. This rough, porous surface provides an ideal environment for more plaque, leading to further buildup and gum health issues.
Calculus can form both above the gumline (supragingival) and below it (subgingival). Supragingival calculus is often yellowish or brown, while subgingival calculus typically appears darker due to black-pigmented bacteria and iron from gingival bleeding. The presence of calculus can irritate the gums, leading to inflammation, redness, and bleeding, which are signs of gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. Untreated calculus can also contribute to bad breath and accelerate tooth decay by trapping bacteria against the teeth.
Why DIY Removal is Not Recommended
Attempting to remove calculus at home is not recommended due to significant risks to oral health. Tools marketed for DIY calculus removal, such as sharp scrapers or abrasive pastes, lack the precision and sterile conditions of professional instruments. Using these can damage delicate gum tissue, potentially leading to gum recession where the gum pulls away from the tooth and exposes sensitive root surfaces. This damage can be painful and increase tooth sensitivity.
Improper use of sharp objects can scratch or damage tooth enamel, the protective outer layer of the tooth. Enamel damage can make teeth more susceptible to cavities and sensitivity. There is also a risk of accidentally pushing calculus and bacteria further under the gumline, which can lead to severe infections, abscesses, and more extensive periodontal problems. Dental professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove calculus, understanding oral anatomy and using specialized techniques to prevent harm.
Professional Calculus Removal Methods
Dental professionals use specific techniques and specialized instruments to safely and effectively remove calculus. Dental scaling is the primary procedure for calculus removal, often combined with root planing, especially in cases of gum disease. Scaling removes plaque and calculus from tooth surfaces, both above and below the gumline. Root planing smooths tooth roots, eliminating bacterial toxins and encouraging gum reattachment.
During a professional cleaning, a dental hygienist or dentist uses a combination of manual and ultrasonic instruments. Manual scalers, like sickle scalers and curettes, are handheld tools with sharp, curved tips that scrape away deposits. Curettes are effective for subgingival calculus removal and root planing. Ultrasonic scalers use high-frequency vibrations to break up and dislodge hardened calculus, emitting a stream of water to flush away debris and cool the instrument tip. Local anesthesia may be applied to numb the area, ensuring patient comfort.
Preventing Calculus Formation
Preventing calculus formation involves consistent daily oral hygiene practices. Brushing teeth twice daily for at least two minutes with fluoride toothpaste removes plaque before it hardens. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush (manual or electric) and cleaning all tooth surfaces is important. Electric toothbrushes are effective, often featuring timers for adequate brushing duration.
Flossing at least once daily removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gumline that toothbrushes cannot reach. Consistency in flossing is key. Limiting the consumption of sugary and starchy foods and drinks also helps reduce the fuel source for plaque-forming bacteria. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, typically every six months, are important for removing calculus and receiving personalized oral hygiene advice.