What is plaque and tartar buildup?
Plaque that has been left on the surfaces of teeth for an excessively long time and hardened it becomes tartar buildup. Plaque that is not removed from your teeth eventually turns to tartar. As we previously discussed, tartar is a hardened plaque. Plaque buildup is a thin, sticky film that forms daily on your teeth. It can irritate gum tissues and forms at, below, and above the gum line. Too much plaque on your teeth will eventually harden into tartar, which is much more challenging to remove. It is an accumulation of plaque buildup on the teeth that has become hardened due to the deposit of mineral salts (such as calcium carbonate). Tartar buildup formed when plaque buildup can result in problems other than cavities. Along with gum recession and periodontal disease, it can also result in tooth sensitivity and discoloration.
What are the symptoms of plaque and tartar on teeth?
Plaque is a result of bacteria that are constantly proliferating in our mouths but may not always be visible. Inflammation and irritation of the gums surrounding your teeth due to plaque buildup around the gum line can result in gingivitis (red, swollen, bleeding gums). Run your tongue over your teeth to quickly detect plaque, which is typically a sign of poor oral hygiene. Dental plaque has a gritty, sticky feel, and it can even be seen as a light-colored layer lining the enamel of your teeth. Gingivitis can develop into periodontal disease and possibly lead to tooth loss if it is not treated.
What causes tartar on teeth?
Tartar on teeth is porous, which gives it a rough feel. This implies that bacteria can enter those pores. Tartar buildup typically begins as an off-white or yellow color, but under certain conditions, it can take on a dark hue. Certain substances that you consume can cause tartar to take on a darker hue, such as:
- coffee
- smoking
- drinking other dark beverages
- starchy or sweet foods
What are the risk factors to oral health due to plaque and tartar?
Additionally, you shouldn’t ignore tartar because it can accumulate and ultimately increase your risk of developing tooth decay, endangering your teeth and gums. It gathers along your gum line and can irritate your gums, leading to gingivitis, a type of inflammation. Periodontitis carries additional health risks that extend beyond oral health, including an increased risk for respiratory disease, heart disease, and diabetes. Periodontitis carries additional health risks that extend beyond oral health, including an increased risk for:
- Cavities: Tartar can erode tooth enamel and result in cavities (tooth decay). Cavities that are not treated can lead to infections and tooth pain. To avoid extractions or root canals, decayed teeth must be treated as soon as possible.
- Gum inflammation: is a hallmark of gingivitis, also known as gum disease. When you brush and floss, your gums might be red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. Fortunately, maintaining good oral hygiene can help to reverse this condition.
- Halitosis is the medical term for having bad breath and a bad aftertaste. Bacteria that mix with food particles and plaque can produce unpleasant odors.
- Periodontitis: Gingivitis can develop into periodontitis if it is not treated. At this point, bone loss happens as the gums pull away from the teeth. 1 Without care, teeth will loosen or eventually fall out.
Different ways to prevent tartar buildup from teeth:
The best way to avoid tartar buildup is to maintain good dental health, as with the majority of dental conditions. Additionally, you can prevent tartar buildup by:
- Regularly scheduled dental appointments for cleanings and exams every six months
- Using fluoride-containing anti-plaque toothpaste and mouthwash
- Twice daily tooth brushing and mouthwash use
- Regular use of dental floss
- It has been demonstrated that using a high-quality electric toothbrush can lessen the effects of calculus development
How to remove tartar from teeth at home?
Let’s talk about the different home remedies which helps you to remove tartar buildup from teeth at home.
Baking Soda & Toothpaste
Plaque on your teeth can be removed with the aid of baking soda. All you need is a toothbrush, toothpaste, salt (if you want it), and a teaspoon of baking soda. Use baking soda alone or combine it with salt for this task. As you brush your teeth, keep it on the toothbrush’s bristles. Now swish some lukewarm water around in your mouth. You can also use toothpaste that has been combined with baking soda to brush your teeth. Simply verify the amount of baking soda used. Too much can damage tooth enamel.
Orange Rind
The peels can be used to clean your teeth by directly applying to them. Simply rub an orange peel piece on your teeth for two minutes. Wash it while the juice is still on. Additionally, you can turn this into a paste and scrub it on your teeth. Put warm water in your mouth to rinse. Do this three or four times a week.
White Vinegar
Swish some white vinegar around your mouth after diluting it with water. White vinegar kills bacteria naturally and effectively removes plaque buildup. Keep in mind that it may not be the most appetizing home remedy for tartar removal.
Aloe Vera
Although Aloe Vera is bitter, it can help remove tartar from your teeth. Make a paste out of it and a few other ingredients to clean your teeth. 1 teaspoon Aloe Vera gel, 4 teaspoons glycerin, 5 tablespoons baking soda, lemon essential oil, and 1 cup water Combine these ingredients and use them to scrub your teeth. Repeat daily until the plaque and tartar are gone.
Cloves
Swish two tablespoons of vegetable oil and ground cloves around your mouth. The anti-inflammatory properties of clove, combined with the pulling effect of oil, can help to naturally remove tartar from your teeth.
Different treatments from dentist to remove tartar from teeth:
Debridement is the only standard treatment for most cases of plaque or tartar accumulation. It is the process of having your teeth professionally cleaned.
1. Sizing
Using specially designed tools, the dentist will scrape dental plaque and tartar from the teeth enamel as well as above and below the gum line.
2. Planning the roots
To prevent further tartar and tooth decay, the dentist will remove the corrosive acidic compounds produced by oral bacteria. This procedure also includes the smoothing of your teeth’s exposed surfaces.
3. Polishing the teeth
To give your teeth a lustrous finish, the dentist will buff away superficial stains and soft plaque deposits from the enamel.
