Dental buildup refers to the accumulation of substances on tooth surfaces. Understanding its nature and impact is important for maintaining oral health. This article explores dental buildup, how it forms, its effects, and methods for its prevention and management.
Understanding Dental Buildup
Dental buildup refers to deposits that form on teeth, primarily consisting of plaque and tartar. Plaque is a sticky film composed of microorganisms, food particles, and saliva that constantly forms on teeth. This biofilm contains bacteria that contribute to oral health issues.
If plaque is not regularly removed, it can harden into tartar, also known as calculus. Tartar is a calcified form of plaque, primarily composed of calcium phosphate mineral salts, which bonds firmly to the tooth surface. Unlike plaque, which can be removed with brushing, tartar has a rough, hard texture and cannot be removed by routine at-home oral hygiene practices.
How Dental Buildup Forms
Plaque formation begins when salivary proteins and glycoproteins adhere to the tooth surface, creating a conditioning film called the acquired enamel pellicle. Bacteria in the mouth then begin to attach to this pellicle, initiating the formation of a microbial community. This process is continuous, and plaque can start developing again soon after teeth are cleaned.
The bacteria within plaque thrive on carbohydrates, such as sugars and starches, from consumed foods and beverages. As these bacteria break down food particles, they produce acids and other substances that contribute to the sticky film. If plaque is not removed through daily brushing and flossing, it begins to calcify, incorporating minerals like calcium and phosphorus from saliva. This mineralization process can begin within hours, leading to plaque hardening into tartar over several days.
Impact on Oral Health
Unchecked dental buildup can lead to negative consequences for oral health. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that erode tooth enamel, increasing the risk of cavities and tooth decay. The presence of plaque and tartar also irritates the gums, often leading to inflammation.
This inflammation, known as gingivitis, is the earliest stage of gum disease. It commonly presents as red, swollen, and tender gums that may bleed easily during brushing or flossing. If gingivitis is left untreated, the inflammation can progress to periodontitis, which involves the destruction of the bone and tissues supporting the teeth, potentially leading to loose teeth and tooth loss. Dental buildup can also contribute to aesthetic concerns, such as tooth discoloration, and is a cause of persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis.
Addressing and Preventing Dental Buildup
Once tartar has formed, it firmly adheres to the tooth surface and cannot be removed through regular brushing or flossing at home. Professional intervention by a dentist or dental hygienist is necessary to remove tartar, typically through a procedure called scaling. Scaling involves using specialized instruments, such as ultrasonic or hand scalers, to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. If gum disease has progressed, a deeper cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing may be recommended. This procedure also smooths the tooth roots to prevent further bacterial accumulation and encourage gum reattachment.
Preventing dental buildup relies on consistent daily oral hygiene practices. Brushing teeth thoroughly at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque. Effective brushing involves angling the toothbrush bristles at 45 degrees to the gumline and using small, circular motions to dislodge plaque from the tooth surface and just beneath the gum.
Flossing at least once daily is also important, as it removes food particles and plaque from between teeth and along the gumline, areas toothbrushes often cannot reach. Using an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can further help reduce bacteria and plaque buildup and strengthen enamel, though it should supplement, not replace, brushing and flossing. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, typically every six months, are also essential for monitoring oral health and removing any accumulating plaque and tartar.