Tartar Breaking Off Teeth: What Is Calculus?
Tartar, also called calculus, is a hard deposit that can form on your teeth. It’s made up of plaque, bacteria, and minerals in your saliva. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. Bacteria in plaque produce acids that eat away at tooth enamel, causing cavities. Minerals in saliva harden plaque, forming calculus. Tartar breaking off teeth can occur both above and below the gum line. It can cause gum inflammation and make it difficult to keep your teeth and gums clean.
Plaque and Tartar – What’s the Difference?
Most people are familiar with the term plaque, but tartar is often less well-understood. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden and turn into tartar. Tartar is a tough, calcified substance that can only be removed by a professional dentist or hygienist. Plaque and tartar can both lead to tooth decay and gum disease, so it is important to remove them on a regular basis. However, plaque is much easier to remove than tartar, so it is important to brush and floss regularly to prevent tartar buildup.
What Are the Causes of Plaque?
Plaque is caused by the bacteria in your mouth, as well as the food and drink that you consume. Sugary and starchy foods are particularly good at promoting plaque growth. Therefore, it is important to brush and floss regularly to remove plaque before it has a chance to turn into tartar.
Plaque can also be caused by poor oral hygiene habits. In addition, if you smoke or use other tobacco products, you are more likely to develop plaque and tartar. This is because smoking and tobacco use can dry out your mouth, which allows plaque to build up more easily. Smoking also increases your risk of gum disease, which can lead to plaque and tartar growth.
How Is Tartar Removed?
Tartar can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist through a process called scaling. Scaling involves using special instruments to break up and remove tartar deposits from the surface of your teeth. Once tartar has been removed, it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits to prevent it from reforming.
How to Prevent Tartar? Dental Care
The best way to prevent tartar build-up and tartar breaking off teeth, is to practice good oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste that contain fluoride. Floss your teeth daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and under your gumline.
In addition, try to avoid eating sugary and acidic foods and drinks, as these can contribute to plaque formation. Regular professional dental cleanings are also important for preventing tartar build-up. During a professional cleaning, your dentist will remove any tartar that has already formed on your teeth. By following these guidelines, you can help keep your smile healthy and prevent tartar build-up.
Tartar Breaking Off Teeth: Tartar Buildup and Its Effect on Teeth and Gums
While tartar itself is not harmful, it can lead to dental problems if it is not removed. Tartar buildup can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. It can also make teeth more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. Tartar breaking off teeth may also resemble a piece of a tooth falling out. Fortunately, tartar is relatively easy to remove with regular brushing and flossing. However, if tartar has already formed, it will need to be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.
When Should You Go to the Dentist to Remove Tartar Build-Up?
If you have tartar buildup, it is important to see a dentist or dental hygienist for a professional cleaning. Scaling is the process of removing tartar from teeth, and it is generally quick and painless. Professional cleanings are important for keeping your smile healthy and preventing further tartar buildup.
What Are the Risks of Not Getting Tartar Removed?
While tartar itself is not harmful, it can lead to gum disease if it is not removed. Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that support the teeth, and it can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, leading to tooth loss. In addition, gum disease has been linked to other health problems such as heart disease and stroke. Therefore, it is important to remove tartar on a regular basis in order to prevent gum disease.
Can You Eliminate Tartar Without a Dental Hygienist?
You may be wondering whether it’s possible to remove tartar and treat tartar breaking off teeth without the help of a dental professional. While there are some at-home tartar removal kits available, it is generally best to see a dentist or dental hygienist for a professional cleaning. Home remedies for tartar removal are often ineffective, and they can also damage the teeth and gums. Therefore, it is best to leave tartar removal to the professionals. There are, however, ways to prevent tartar buildup in the first place.
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