What Is Tartar on Teeth? Understanding Calcified Tartar and Its Risks
Tartar, also called calcified tartar, is hardened plaque that forms above and below the gumline. It’s tough to remove without help from a tartar dentist. If you’re asking what is tartar or what is tooth tartar made of, it’s mainly mineralized plaque mixed with bacteria and food debris. Left untreated, tartar leads to gum disease, bad breath, and tooth discoloration. Routine cleanings and strong oral hygiene are essential to prevent tartar buildup. This guide explains how tartar forms, what it’s made of, and how professionals remove and manage this stubborn dental issue.
What Is Dental Tartar?
Tartar is a calcified deposit that forms on your teeth when plaque, the sticky film of bacteria, hardens. The dental formation of plaque is natural after consuming food, but its failure to brush and floss leads it to develop into hardened tartar within a 2-day period. Tartar constitutes dead bacteria minerals that become mineralized through saliva while also containing small amounts of calcium phosphate along with calcium carbonate and magnesium phosphate.
The accumulation of tartar on teeth requires professional dental cleaning methods involving scaling and cannot be treated by basic brushing techniques.
How Does Tartar Form on Your Teeth?
Plaque on the teeth is untreated and forms tartar. Soft plaque can be removed by brushing and flossing. Typically, plaque doesn’t form a problem unless it goes uncleaned and combines with minerals of saliva to harden into tartar.
- Plaque is the soft, sticky film that forms after eating.
- Tartar is hardened plaque, or tartar, attaches tightly to your teeth, especially between them, and sometimes in front of them.
Tartar buildup is a major concern because it serves as a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
Can Tartar Cause Bad Breath?
True, bad breath (halitosis) can result from tartar. Then, as tartar builds up on the teeth bacteria, they trap it and produce sulfur compounds that make for bad odor. In particular, bad breath arises when these bacteria feed on the food particles and dead cells trapped in the tartar. This can be overcome by regular professional cleanings that remove tartar.
Things You Must Know About Dental Tartar
- Tartar Is Difficult to Remove on Your Own:
Regular brushing or flossing can’t remove plaque harden into tartar. You cannot remove it by yourself; you need a professional dental cleaning. - Tartar Leads to Other Dental Problems:
If tartar is not removed the tartar can contribute to gum disease, cavities, and more serious dental problems. In addition, gum irritation and a potential cause of periodontal disease result. - Tartar Can Affect Your Appearance:
Tartar buildup can discolor your teeth and leaves unsightly yellow or brownish deposits primarily at the gum line. - Tartar Is More Likely to Form in Certain Areas:
Tartar often comes about where plaque is not cleaned off routinely, particularly at the back of the teeth, amongst gumline, and between the teeth.
How Long Does Tartar Take to Form on Your Teeth?
Within 24 to 48 hours, plaque can result in tartar formation if it isn’t being removed. However, as plaque builds up after eating it begins to become hard in a relative short time and becomes tartar; if not cleaned off, it will build up. The quicker the plaque is removed, the less likely that it turns into tartar. Therefore, it is sensible to brush and floss on a regular basis.
Tartar Doesn’t Have to Be a Permanent Condition
The good news is that tartar doesn’t have to be permanent. Professional teeth cleaning can remove it. Regular, every six months, cleanings are vital to regular oral health and hemostasis from tartar buildup. If given proper care, tartar will not be a reoccurring problem.
Aftercare Tips for Tartar Prevention
Preventing tartar buildup is easier than treating it. Here are some essential aftercare tips to keep your teeth clean and free from tartar:
- Brush Twice a Day: Brush your teeth for at least two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque between your teeth where brushes can’t reach.
- Use Tartar Control Mouthwash: This helps to kill bacteria and control plaque buildup.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases tartar buildup, especially along the gum line.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Professional cleanings help remove tartar that can’t be removed by brushing.
Conclusion: Don’t Let Tartar Affect Your Smile
Tartar buildup is common, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent issue. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are the best way to prevent and treat tartar. If you notice tartar buildup or are concerned about your oral hygiene, schedule an appointment with Dr. Uparika Sharma at Bellevue Azalea Dentistry. We’ll help you keep your smile healthy and bright!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Do I Know if I Have Tartar?
Tartar appears as yellow or brownish deposits on your teeth, usually around the gum line.
Is Tartar Removal Painful?
Tartar removal is generally not painful, but you may experience mild discomfort if there’s significant buildup.
Can Tartar Cause Tooth Decay?
Yes, tartar provides a surface for bacteria to thrive, which can lead to tooth decay over time.
How Can I Prevent Tartar?
Brushing, flossing regularly, and using tartar control mouthwash can help prevent tartar buildup.
Is Tartar on Teeth the Same as Plaque?
No, plaque is soft and can be brushed away, while tartar is hardened plaque that needs professional removal.
Call today to schedule a consultation! (425) 998-8109
Call today to schedule a consultation!
(425) 998-8109
