Dental tartar, also known as calculus, is a very hard substance that adheres firmly to teeth. It forms when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, is not regularly removed from the tooth surface. This hardened deposit contributes to various oral health concerns, making its prevention important for a healthy mouth.
What is Tartar and How Does it Form?
Tartar is essentially dental plaque that has hardened over time. Plaque is a soft, sticky film composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva that constantly forms. If this plaque remains on the tooth surfaces, it begins to absorb minerals like calcium and phosphate from your saliva. This process, known as calcification or mineralization, transforms the soft plaque into hard tartar.
This hardening can occur within 24 to 72 hours if not removed. Tartar commonly forms in areas where salivary glands are, such as behind the lower front teeth and on the outer surfaces of the upper molars. Once formed, tartar creates a rough surface that attracts even more plaque, accelerating further buildup.
The Hard Truth About Tartar
Tartar is a highly mineralized structure, which accounts for its hardness. It is comparable in density to bone, though it is not as hard as tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the hardest substance, providing a protective outer layer for teeth. The mineral content of tartar, primarily calcium phosphate, gives it a concrete-like structure.
Due to its calcified nature, tartar cannot be removed by regular brushing or flossing. Its firm attachment to the tooth surface requires specialized dental instruments for removal. Attempting to scrape off tartar at home can damage tooth enamel or harm gum tissues.
Why Tartar Poses a Risk to Oral Health
Tartar creates a rough, porous surface that serves as a breeding ground for more bacteria and plaque. This environment exacerbates oral health problems. Tartar contributes to gum irritation, leading to gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where inflammation damages the tissues and bone supporting the teeth.
Tartar also traps odor-producing bacteria, causing bad breath. It creates a shield for bacteria, making it difficult to remove the acids these bacteria produce. These acids erode tooth enamel, increasing the risk of cavities.
Strategies to Keep Tartar Away
Preventing tartar buildup primarily involves thorough oral hygiene practices. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush helps remove plaque before it hardens. Daily flossing is important for removing plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gumline, areas a toothbrush may miss. Using an antiseptic mouthwash can also reduce bacteria and help prevent plaque from forming.
Regular professional dental cleanings are necessary because once tartar has formed, it can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist using specialized tools. Professional cleanings are recommended every six months to remove existing tartar and maintain optimal oral health. Limiting sugary and starchy foods also reduces fuel for plaque-producing bacteria.